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THE 

MYSTERY OF A 
PYRAMID 


By FRANCES A. HOOD 


PUBLISHED BY THE AUTHOR 
523 West Avenue South 
La Crosse, Wis. 


PRICE ONE DOLLAR 


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THE MYSTERY OF A 
PYRAMID 


By FRANCES A. HOOD 


PUBLISHED BY THE AUTHOR 
523 West Avenue South 
La Crosse, Wis. 


Copyright, 1915 
By Frances A. Hood 


©CI.A410(io3 
AUG 30 1915 



FOREWORD 


Will the reader of our story look carefully, 
as he progresses through its pages, and see if 
among them, he can detect the rhythm; re- 
quiring a transposition of words at times in 
order that it may be attained. 

“The Mystery of a Pyramid” is placed in 
your hands by the writer, asking that if, after 
reading it, you can conscientiously praise the 
work, such praise may be forwarded, to the 
address given at foot of title page, and on cover. 

“The Mystery of a Pyramid” will be followed 
by other stories, in rapid succession, to be ob- 
tained at the same address. 


Author. 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID. 


CHAPTER I 

When laws were few, protecting those un- 
fortunates displeasing higher powers, there 
lay within the desert, east of the pyramids, a 
city of refuge, for hunted men. 

This was placed where caravans might stop, 
as to and fro they went in trade, but few, es- 
caping for their lives, had strength to reach 
its gates. 

The State, had subsidized a band of Bedouins 
robbers, infesting the sole oasis, between that 
city and the pyramids, so no help might be ob- 
tained from them, to save a life past all sym- 
pathy of authorities. 

It was believed by governments, that when 
communities regarded one among them as 
worthy death, it must be true ; and while blood 
was not wished to lie at any door, the desert 
might, in secret, end all, for the criminal. 

Within the fertile valley of the Nile, in that 


6 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


far day, when men lived simply, and their 
wants were few, the homes were clustered near 
each other mid the palms, for safety and com- 
panionship. 

Among the dwellers of the tents, were some, 
whose interests were with Sahara’s sands; and 
unto these, with all the rest, did Ibrahim, ‘ ‘ The 
Patriarch” of the tribe, tell of the life to 
come, and how men made themselves in this 
one, fit or otherwise, to enter where the blest 
are ever happy, with eternal life made theirs. 

There had been with the valley, lo these 
many years, another band of outlaws; and 
their chief, declaring himself ruler, and usurp- 
ing power belonging to the individual, claimed 
all for self, he deemed the best. 

Beautiful and beloved of her father Ibra- 
him, Lillah, the Arab maid whose heart was 
in the heart of Aladin, attracted him; and he 
resolved she should be his, regardless of her 
wishes, or the hopes cherished by him who 
became the husband, more to her, than all 
earth held beside. 

Stirring against that husband, all the evil 
natures over which he had control, that he 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


7 


might drive him forth to die upon the sands, 
it was not long till this had been accomplished, 
and his tribe, in part, longed for a death that 
heretofore, had been one feared ; while Hashid 
El Raman, his enemy, obtained his heart’s de- 
sire, in that he fled. 

Night, brought to Ibrahim a message, by 
one long faithful, where devotion meant the 
risk of life itself; and quietly The Patriarch 
had then warned Aladin, so that with terror 
in their hearts, the three most strongly bound 
in withes of love, made all in readiness that 
then they might, to save his life. 

With Lillah held close to a breaking heart, 
he made his way in darkness, to her father’s 
tent, and there disguised himself in garments 
left by him who told; then laid his love upon 
the heart of his sweet wife, and made to Heav- 
en with her, the plea for help, in his ex- 
tremity. 

Stealing on foot, from out the fronded palms, 
in a direction Hashid El Raman had felt would 
not be his to choose, as lying far across the 
desert plain, he swung off through the night, 
and gained the shifting sands. 


8 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


Oh, for a horse! had been the mighty wish 
in all their hearts, and none of them before, 
had use or gold for it; while now, was every 
steed among the dwellers of the tents, under 
the eye of him that hired all. 

Till morning broke, far in the eastern sky, 
emblazoned with insignia of hell, torrid and 
fierce, and dreadful, his limbs had borne him 
on, but still the pyramids were not yet reached. 

His blistered feet he drew from out the sand, 
telling himself the two at home, ceased not to 
pray for him in anguish, as he struggled on; 
until the withering heat became so like a fiery 
blast, it seemed to scathe his throat and lungs, 
each time he breathed it in. 

Almost unconscious, he had come at last 
unto the shade where he might rest till night, 
prone on the scorching earth; and told him- 
self that El Raman would track him neath the 
cruel moon, no farther than the spot whereon 
he lay, for he must die, if help came not to him. 

Feeble and panting, as one fever had bereft 
of strength to flee or fear, he drew himself 
close to the wall of stone, that held a little 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 9 

coolness for his aching frame, and told himself 
hope, was for him no more. 

Seven hours were his, within the blister- 
ing shade, heedless of all that there might 
come to him ; and when he wakened, on the tall 
facade of glistening rock, smoothed by a mon- 
arch’s will, of iron strength, rested an eye, 
glazed almost, as in death. 

Fierce his tumultuous thoughts, of El Ra- 
man; who at that moment, felt assured his 
prey had fled the tents, and must be then 
along the desert highway, wide as was the land, 
and longer than a human foot could tread, with 
heart or hope to live. 

He dug his nails into the earth, with strong 
and bitter sense of what had been, and let- 
ting all the pent up passion of his soul find ut- 
terance in groans and sobs, that shook a frame 
noble and beautiful, felt hope leaving him. 

Lying amid the burning sand, that swirled 
around a pyramid whose huge proportions 
rose above the earth, until its apex reared it- 
self into a sky as brazen with its fiery face, as 
were the ones scowling upon him, in his tor- 
tured mind, he tore the leathern thong from 


10 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


round his waist, and raising then unto his 
fevered lips the skin, holding a draught that 
once was cool, when Lillah placed it there, and 
warned him to drink sparingly, that he die 
not from thirst, ere Ormond might be reached, 
remembered not, but drank. 

Of food, he had partaken little; and the 
black bread from its case within his girdle laid 
so flat, was much as when the wife had pressed 
it to her lips, bidding him eat and think 
of her, as it passed his. 

Almost he shrieked ; in awful agony of heart, 
and reason scarce maintained ; as pictured they 
his Lillah in her father’s tent, where he had 
carried her that hapless night, when mingled 
were their moans afad tears, robbed of him 
and love, that was to her like flowing river, 
brightening all the land, laving each rock, and 
washing every stone, until it gleamed in lus- 
tre, beautiful as gems. 

It was so cruel ! such a lying scheme to wreck 
the life her love had made oblivious to every 
storm that gathered in the sky above his head, 
till this, did threaten all his being held, of joy. 

He had courage and ambition, that declared 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


11 


themselves in strong determination to fulfill 
all duty, and had entered into the respect and 
confidence of those about him, to a marked 
degree; so that fair promise of a leadership 
was his, before the enmity bewraying him, had 
ruined all. 

Nothing remained as yet for him to do, but 
bear in anguish all ’gainst which his fortitude 
might stand ; and try to hope The Patriarch , so 
loving to his child, might find a way to circum- 
vent the man, laying in waste, her life. 

Tender her love for him whose hand rested 
in blessing, on a daughter’s head, for mother 
had she none; and all her years were in his 
care alone, among the tents where were the 
Arab women and their little ones. 

Filled he her mind with knowledge that 
would bring them comfort; adding unto it, his 
art to tell the stars, that circled on their way, 
as had they from the daybreak of all time, he 
felt, and would keep on, their watching still, of 
human woes, until the land and sea, were 
merged in one. 

She had grown beautiful, with every pass- 
ing year; his floweret, his only blossom, worn 


12 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

upon a heart telling his people wisdom lay 
within, stored deep and wide, with all its val- 
ues, rare and unsurpassed. 

Handwriting on the wall, lit by the inner 
lamp that burned not yet, low toward its 
socket, told him he must go ; and Lillah, tender 
Li 11 ah, then would be without a father, unpro- 
tected among howling wolves, seeking her, 
as the one all most wished their own; and in 
his fear, love’s angel, brought him comfort. 

Beside her, had uprisen the man, who from 
her infancy almost, had shared her days, until 
age, brought him to manhood and its cares; 
so that her father knew his inmost mind, and 
felt that true Nobility, inbred, had stamped 
with her inscription clear and deep, the heart 
and character, of him so dear unto the little one 
both shielded, from the least harsh wind that 
blew. 

Now had the time come, when ’twas to be 
shown what was her native fibre ; and she laid 
aside her childishness so winsome, with a firm- 
ness born of sorrow, that enthralled and vitri- 
fied her life, until it rang against the steel 
that met her in the way, and turned her back 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


13 


upon herself, with sharp decisive locking of 
all doors at once, holding within them richest 
treasure, sought by him that sent her husband 
forth, to die. 


CHAPTER II 

The awful hours had passed ; and Aladin lay 
upon the cooling earth, feeling all must again 
begin for him, leading unto another day, that 
might be with disaster, ere the night brought 
respite from its agony, were he to live till then. 

His trembling hand lay pressed against the 
stone, deep in the sand that held the sun- 
heat yet, and felt a movement of the mass, that 
told him he had found an opening in the 
pyramid. 

With bounding heart, he scraped away the 
earth, and pushed the great stone inward; till 
his weight and strength combined, forced him 
an entrance to the tomb of some Egyptian 
monarch — as he knew — who might then be, with 
all bringing so many slaves to death building 
the pyramids, wishing that cooling drink be 
his; who in life, refused all mercy, to depen- 
dency. 


14 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

He found by sense of touch, the great stone 
grooved, and resting on another in such way, 
as to provide a door; and entered he, with 
feelings not to be unfolded, in the words 
taught him through which to pour the elo- 
quence for which he had been famed, ’mong 
many men. 

Few were the tents beneath the palm trees 
strewn, girding the tribal boundaries of that 
far time, and his had been a silver tongue, that 
chimed for every good, ’gainst every wrong. 

Sweeping through his mind, came thoughts 
of what might make him then with safety, 
till all danger of pursuit were past; and long- 
ing for more water, he felt the Nile, flowed 
near at hand, *Sd-to its brink, might steal one, 
when the darkness came, to fill his leathern 
bottle, then return. 

All was in solitude, and the dead, lying 
within sarcophagus so high, was with a thing 
making the tomb to hold — it might be— what 
would cool his thirst for life; since all pro- 
vision would be surely made for drink, with 
food as well, to last throughout the years of 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


15 


an existence, then confined within the cool- 
ness of the pyramid. 

Wishing to make examination of the stone 
by which had entered he, the flint within his 
belt he did withdraw, and striking fire, lighted 
a taper thin, to hold above, until he saw it 
well. 

Carefully took he note of all about the door 
he had swung wide, then closed exactly as be- 
fore; feeling assurance his, that it might 
opened be, with ease, and bring him all securi- 
ty, when within the tomb, the hand that found 
the sole place, upon the very center meeting 
it, where pressure made the entrance to ap- 
pear, outside, would close with care, the rock. 

Thankful his heart, as on tfermor he sank, 
and felt its coolness, at the foot of stairs, in 
height proportioned to the length of time 
needed by desert sand, to pile itself against the 
pyramid, before the mummy there would wake 
from sleep, and wait for help to cast its cere- 
ments aside. 

For a little space, he thought on all; then 
turned unto an inner room, that held within 


16 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

its wide extent, perchance, the stores of which 
his future, stood in need. 

Another taper, guided him to oil ; the turning 
of a screw, set flowing easily, and silver lamps 
with many wicks at hand, threw mellow ra- 
diance when he lighted them, upon the sump- 
tuous furnishings about, telling him that a 
queen, lay in the tomb above. 

Behind carved screens of costly wood, pre- 
served by art Egyptian, from decay, row after 
row of bins he found, heaped high with corn; 
and near them stood the massive water jugs, 
that sealed with care, stood waiting for a 
thirst to be assuaged, brought swift to one, by 
him. 

All his anxiety to reach the place of refuge, 
vanished; as he told himself this would be far 
better, than to feel he must remain so far from 
Lillah and her father, or live without them, 
till his name were cleared from all that black- 
ened it, at least. 

Not more than one night, on the desert, 
might she live ; he told himself, and to the tents, 
must they not yet return, lest Hashid El Ka- 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 17 

man make him to lie as low, as now he would 
believe him, in the sand. 

One night upon the sands would reunite 
them then, and he might make his way across 
the waste, to find her before dawn; when all 
had laid aside belief that he yet lived. 

Then thought he of her agony; when she 
should be with news that Ormond held him not. 

Weighing all, he measured off the time and 
felt another day, might find within the shadow 
of the pyramids, those who pursued him; and 
at night, their fiery steeds would bear them on, 
seeking to overtake him, ere the gates of re- 
fuge entered were, by him. 

Would Lillah lay by hope? he answered no! 
not until she had tried to follow him, and felt 
the only way to save his life, was to remain in 
comfort where he was, until a time should come, 
bringing them each to each, once more, in blis- 
fulness. 

So he surveyed the riches all around, scat- 
tered profusely by the hand of Love, and told 
himself if he escaped at last, and was restored 
unto her with clean name, that would increase 
importantly, as time went on, and make the 


18 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


orator to whom men listened so attentively, as 
that held their minds to thoughts of good, 
one widely known, he would return, and move 
them from the pyramid. 

All that was there, would well nigh lade a 
caravan; with carven gold, and most consum- 
mate worth, that by discoverer’s rights, be- 
longed to him, approaching death, before it 
met his eye, that told him God was good, and 
held him from the ravening lion’s maw. 

The light burned brightly, and without fear 
of any seeing his comfort, in the glare of des- 
ert sun, left he that, telling him dreams were 
not his, nor did he lay a prey between the 
pyramids, to those that sought his life. 

He longed to know the time ; and once again 
ascending to the door in darkness, laid his ear 
close unto it and listened; but no sound was 
there, as the heat surged ’gainst its front, and 
with a sickening sense of what that meant to 
life, he gently drew the stone within, and the 
great shadow of the pyramid, told him the hour 
was after three. 

Closing the door again, returned he then, 
back to his lamp and luxury; enjoyed not, as 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


19 


his Lillah ’s woe bore in upon his heart, and told 
him of her suffering, that had for him, been 
sunshine’s self, since first her smile beamed on 
him, in their childhood sweet. 

The hours crept on, until he sank to sleep; 
with thoughts of how the only thing man’s 
mind could have conceived, whereby his name 
and power might be perpetuated, through the 
centuries, had been the work of kings, in self- 
ishness apalling, raising unto themselves the 
pyramids. 

That their belief, led them to build them- 
selves mansions, where they might dwell in 
plenteousness of all surrounding them in pal- 
aces on the Nile, and make unto their wives, 
an offering of the heart’s wealth — monarch 
might possesses well as slave — in tomb magnif- 
icent and all enduring, well he knew. 

For him, life would be useless, without Lil- 
lah; and he asked himself, might it not be, 
that when he should explore more carefully, a 
passage would be found, leading unto a larger 
pyramid near to the one in which he lay, and 
thought on the magnificence within. 

Had it been the thought of kingly minds, 


20 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


that human passions held, to make the most of 
opportunities for love and dear companionship, 
until the sweet time should appear, of which 
had often talked the mated ones, who knew 
a separation must ensue sooner or late, and 
’gainst its awful suffering, provide the 
pyramids ? 

Would it be theirs then, to be again united to 
their loves, and in the leisure and luxuriance 
made that awaiting them, pass all the time they 
must, between death earthly, and the day to 
come, when all shades, must be in their final 
drear abode? 

How far beyond the poverty of such belief, 
was that The Patriarch had sown, deep in the 
fallow ground of Lillah ’s heart and his ; bring- 
ing to him sweet pictures, as he lay and felt 
they might again not meet, where heartache, 
and the sunheat, threw upon their lives, suffer- 
ing they fain would be without, in peace. 

He thought the way pursued by Pharaohs, 
was shameless, void of feeling for the slave, 
and without excuse for sacrificing lives, be- 
cause a day was theirs, when none might dare 
to gainsay, iron will. 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 21 

Force, held its sway, above the toilers at the 
pyramids, raising its lash of scorpions, and 
flaying the scorched backs, until the bleeding 
bodies underneath, were baked, and all en- 
crusted with their blood. 

Steadily toiled the workers, for a lifetime 
might not suffice— at times— for Pride to raise 
the apex higher than another standing near, 
telling of more slaves and power, to rear its 
head into the coppery sky. 

Lighting more lamps, he placed in every cor- 
ner of that splendid room, close to the water 
jugs at last, his eye fell on a gleaming hasp of 
gold; sparkling with gems, beneath the many 
lights, inviting hand to grasp it, which his did. 

Then on his sight, there fell a vision bright, 
of radiance more dazzling, than the flash of 
morning light streaming from scimetar most 
keen, held in the hand of chieftain, leading his 
men to battle; or splashing spray of fountain, 
glistening like diamonds rare, upon the face 
of beauty, bathing itself in coolness and de- 
light. 

Long looked he at the walls, resplendent in 
the lamplight there, telling himself their rich- 


22 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

ness, might well dower the bride of one crowned 
King, not alone of Egypt, but of the whole 
earth, Emperor. 

At length, leaving the spot, he followed down 
the hallway, till it brought him to another door, 
in all similitude, like unto the one then passed. 

Opening with ease of him that knew the 
way, his eye fell on the counterpart of that 
great chamber at his back, with all provision 
for the king, wrapped close in mummy cloths, 
that lay and waited for the day to come, free- 
ing him from the awful death, that held him 
prisoner, to the terminal of time that would 
release him unto happiness. 

Treasures innumerable, were ranged around 
the place, telling a ruler’s pride in ancestry, 
and in belongings and accoutrements, that bade 
eyes unaccustomed to their worth, but know- 
ing gold, and gems, and corn, and oil, with 
sealed perfumes, and spices rich and rare, to 
read a tale of opulence and greed, that made 
him with them, wonder where the world, might 
offer market for his hoard. 

Great mirrors swung between their silver 
knobs, reflected from their polished depths, 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


23 


the ancient tapestreis, o’er which the eyes and 
backs of slaves had bent, with tears blinding 
their sight, and lash upraised above them till 
the work was done; making for one that Em- 
peror sat, enthroned on human hearts— and not 
within — the pleasant things to see, reminding 
him of those more dear to him in pictures, it 
might be, than in reality. 

He knew well, they were priceless in their 
worth, and felt them with him in his solitude ; 
then thinking of his Lillah, and her sire, across 
the jewelled rug his footsteps sped, nor slack- 
ened pace, until he reached the doorway, once 
again. 

CHAPTER III 

Cooler the stone, and all apprised was he, 
that Noontime’s march had ended at his goal, 
long hours before; while he had made investi- 
gation of the pyramids, leading him to the cer- 
tainty of wealth untold, might he their stores 
remove. 

How would he make them safe from Be- 
douins, preying upon each other, and in all 
neighborhoods, save those within the city 


24 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

walls, that held in safety, under lock and bar, 
all laid within one common guarded vault? 

Were Lillah only there, with Ibrahim, all 
would be found, making their hearts turn 
yearningly no more, unto the tent, bereft of 
that then with them in the pyramid; where, 
with each other’s love, they lacked for naught. 

Listening long, he stood, with ear applied 
most patiently to the hot stone that held for 
him but silence, till he felt it might be opened ; 
and if any sought him yet, they must have 
passed the pyramids that morn too early far, 
for them to pause ; knowing they might by day- 
light, on their barbs, make desert well, again. 

Shadows disclosed the time, as nearly even; 
and yet above the desert, blazed the sky, in 
brazen bluster of unseemly glare. 

He had felt the day one not yet long, but 
wearied with the thing done, and the thoughts 
it brought, laid himself down at last, upon the 
couch awaiting queenly form, that annotated 
nothing of the time, and fell asleep; to dream 
not, but to awaken after hours of rest, 
refreshed, and hearing in his inner ear, a tone- 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


25 


less voice ; distinctly clear, deliberate, and with 
question in the words. 

“Art thou within my tomb, thinking to wait 
for one who loves thee true, to come and be 
drawn into it, by thee?” 

Aladin lay in silence; for a time, then an- 
swered truthfully, as was his wont, I am; and 
in a few days think I, she will come, and we 
will make a home within the pyramids, that 
hold in death, two forms, that never, do I 
think, will use them other than as now. 

Listening carefully, her answer, as it fell 
upon the table of his inner ear, told him a mind 
excarnate, spoke. 

True it is, that we shall never use them oth- 
erwise, and unto one who will be gener- 
ous with their store, and make it serve the poor 
and needy well, do I bequeath it gladly; feel- 
ing time has brought all, where it should have 
been at first. 

Thou wilt reach a city, where men in trade, 
will be with camels ; and not safely then, hazard 
thy trips alone, or in sole company of one well 
worthy trust, unto the pyramids holding our 
wealth; but once, must risk a life angels will 


26 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

guard on every hand, that good may come of it. 

When on the beasts The Patriarch will pro- 
vide, thy dear ones shall make known their 
presence here, before some other morning is far 
spent, thou wilt bring them in, and find a way 
to carry unto Ormond, all these riches vast. 

Yea, then said Aladin, and when once my 
Lillah bears me company, it will be days, ere 
our return is made, taking us unto danger from 
the Bedouin bands, infesting all the desert 
round about. 

We will rest, amid the luxury, while even the 
camels shall have plentitude, awaiting us be- 
tween the pyramids. 

And there reveal thy presence; said the 
queen warningly, then added, think not of 
that, when thou shalt be in readiness for eyes 
that may approach, and look for them that own 
the beasts. 

Thou may ’st awnings stretch, making a room 
close to the stone, for thy sweet wife, that thou 
wilt guard there from intrusive eyes, while un- 
derneath the one before, will lie The Patriarch. 

Then can I pass within the door, and bring 
thence many things to make our load; said 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


27 


Aladin, and the queen rejoined, At Ormond, 
men will but suppose thou buyest, as do all, 
and will not suspect the hidden treasure that is 
here, but as time passes, will it be otherwise; 
and dangers will attend thy journeyings, call- 
ing for wise precaution thou must use. 

Its distribution, will be surely that, making 
thy time count greatly for man’s good; while 
all will be as angels shall advise, and thou 
wilt feel the jewels, that have caused so many 
tears, for blood spilled in their winning, will 
be at length with needy ones, and recom- 
pense a class, crushed by the cruelty of an- 
cient hands, red with the plundering of weak or 
strong. 

Aladin saw his life work stretch before, 
with cast that gleamed along the flowery way, 
like mellow moonlight on the waterfall, si- 
lently dropping to the open sea a hundred feet 
below ; leaving its mist, to feed on either hand, 
that verdancy wherein the love of man takes 
root, and through succeeding generations, ever 
grows. 

He felt the life would fit within his wish; 
and that for him, no better monument could 


28 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

be, than one built in the hearts of fellow men, 
of generous deeds, and helpful, kindly words. 

Gladly assenting to the queen, he heard her 
say, There is a secret chamber, that for thee, 
whose mind I read, as men read books, and 
know thou speak ’st the truth, I will unclose; 
and thou shalt find it filled with what en- 
riches, past all other gain, even of the whole 
earth. 

Aladin felt her meaning, and asked all that 
she might tell ; hearing her in return, say W ell 
for thee the asking. 

One of the laws beyond the tomb, demands 
it, ere receipt be thine; and if thou wilt re- 
member this, more will be told, as I am telling 
now, while earthly life shall last with thee, than 
pyramid may hold, of value rare. 

Aladin hearkened closely, as the queen said 
this, then added slowly and impressively, Be 
watchful of thy words, and acts; keeping all 
truth with thee, to the least particular ; so that 
when thou shalt long for certainty, not to be 
gained from man, and earnestly shalt ask it, 
of Excarnate Mind, it will be made thine, in 
“The Still, Small Voice,’ ’ waiting to be with 
all. 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


29 


Pondering deep her words, he sank to sleep ; 
and when awakened he, the morning light had 
made the pyramids its own, for more than half 
the space of one forenoon. 

Unto the door he hastened, there to hear loud 
voices cursing the heat, and telling how the 
form of him that stole away on foot, from out 
the tents, must now be buried in the blistering 
sand. 

If breath were with it still, too dear the cost 
to them, of that to glut the savage hatred of 
their chief, for him who married where him- 
self had wished, and hired them forthwith, to 
track the quarry, lest the desert fail of bring- 
ing it to death. 

Ormond might scarce be reached alive, on 
back of steed or camel, with corn and drink, 
plentifully in store ! and not by one on foot, 
with only food and moisture, such as Aladin 
might bear ! 

Why not lie still and sleep nights, then 
after days enough shall pass, for us to have 
behind us, all the trip, return from here, and 
tell the tyrant, him we sought, is dead? said 
one that then laid nearest, to the listening ear. 


30 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

A fine mess of pottage that would be, were 
Aladin to live, and come again for Lillah, 
when he found the tribe was minded to be- 
lieve no more the word of Hashid, and one bore 
him the news ; answered another, whom he well 
knew, had served the chieftain well. 

Vainly he wished the first man, had not 
said the thing he had; lest report made by the 
others, lose to him his head. 

All then agreed to start again; when eve- 
ning shadows should have cooled the air, and 
under their spread awnings laid themselves, 
to pass the time as best they might, till then. 

Aladin lingered still ; and heard one say, The 
wife, that mourns her husband, as does she 
that Hashid thinks to carry to his tent, may 
thankful be, no way was there, to give her 
company to him so dear; then die, as he has, 
in the awful heat baking the flesh tight to 
their bones, that are strong, and able to en- 
dure. 

She will lie low as he, within a month, and 
be in Paradise as well; another cried, for the 
heavenly nature we all know is hers, will carry 
her above the clouds of earth, where with her 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


31 


husband— who will be with all remembrance 
for his valor and his worth, among us— she 
will ever dwell with angels holy, in the Great 
Beyond. 

He heard, and wrung his hands, in tears of 
anguish; tearing at his robe with trembling 
fingers, then strained his ear to catch, if it 
might be so, something more. 

She surely will be following after him, and 
the man wanting her, will lie in wait, here at 
the pyramids; spake then one Aladin would 
have well warned, if that he might, and who 
added the commendatory words that were of 
wisdom; as he second thought. 

CHAPTER IY 

The lagging day departed with unwilling- 
ness, and all had gone their way, as loth as she, 
to leave for further labor, the lone pyramids; 
and he told himself that when the midnight 
should be with the tents three times, his Lillah 
would have had the word, making her fear 
he had been rendered helpless to maintain his 
life. 

That she would give him up, was not his 


32 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

thought; but that it might be hers to die, ere 
reaching him, he knew full well. 

Within his long bright scarf he hid his face, 
and its enwrapping folds, wet with hot tears, 
told how the fountain in his heart sent forth 
its waters, bitter as Marah’s stream in Egypt’s 
land; while all his frame was rent with sobs, 
that choked him like the withering simoon’s 
blast, and he made moanings, that were heard 
on high. 

Long were the hours that brought to him 
unconsciousness of all save suffering, till he 
slept; and when the westering sun another 
day, sank to a bed of flame, he stole up to the 
stone, and looking out, the shadow told him 
time had passed away, until full half, was gone, 
that kept from Lillah’s ear, the deathknell of 
Sweet Hope. 

From Bedouin lips resounding, as those sent 
by Hashid, were once more with the tents, on 
their return from Ormond, she and Ibrahim 
would hear, and by it, be sent forth to follow 
him. 

Strength must he call back, that had once 
been his, ere leaving it upon the desert, step 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


33 


by step, as towards the pyramids he strug- 
gled on, and all his grief, had weakened him 
still more. 

Food wished he not; but for his Lillah’s 
sake, it must be his; and with that certainty 
within his heart, he ate and drank. 

Then sinking on the couch, where he had 
heard the queen’s voice in his ear, with aching 
heart he there called unto Him, in whose hands 
hidden lie the destinies of men, to send him 
wisdom; with a fullness that should make all 
life to come, as it would need to be, that he 
might enter at its close, the blissful land, where 
every dream the human heart holds dear, may 
be with a reality, fixed as the stars, that move 
not, only with their suns. 

Aladin knew that some kept on their way, and 
turned to earth a gentle glance, as they held 
all beneath them, weakly in their thought; 
while others, glowed with brightness given 
them, he felt assured, by those contiguous, of 
import more. 

Thus was his mind reflective, even when 
those about him, told themselves the light of 
God, streamed through the floor of heaven upon 


34 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


the air of night, to light the way that trav- 
elers must take, across the desert drear. 

Longing for what his heart had asked, he 
caught again the inner toneless voice ; and 
listening with intentness, made deep thought 
his own, as spake The Oracle. 

I am with Him on whom thou called ’st but 
now, and unto thee will I His wishes tell; not 
that for one alone, are they made known, but 
unto those as well, to whom thou wilt reveal 
the mighty yearning of all angel hearts, for 
loved ones left among the world’s dark ways, 
to wander on. 

Knowledge have none, of all that must be 
known, ere any, reach the star that holds en- 
tire repose, unto the weary soul that will lie 
sweet, within the bosom warm and soft, of one 
most dear, when friends on earth have left the 
passing sight, and the last fond farewell, has 
spoken been, in tears and tenderness. 

Little the mind of man may hold the thought, 
that when the heart shall cease its throbbing 
note, and the blue eyelids fall along the up- 
turned eyes that look on Death, how unto them, 
he seems the dearest one they ever lost from 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 35 

scenes of earthly woe, in parting from him, as 
their own great love. 

Sometimes will he appear to mother heart, 
the tender brood receiving all her care, that one 
by one, she laid within the sepulchre of buried 
hopes, with anguish keen; and ofttimes seen 
is he, as one that held in quivering arms, the 
form beloved, telling in them, what words, 
might fail to bring from out a heart most ten- 
der, great, and true. 

I am the queen, a Pharaoh held most dear; 
that telleth thee thy life hath found its mate, 
in her that with thee, lay within the Mind of 
Him, that held thee in His thought awhile, ere 
severing thy segment from the whole. 

Then happy be, in thought she yet will bring 
to thee her tenderness ; and casting fear aside, 
lay soft and cool, here in the pyramid, with 
angel telling thee the one great secret, of eter- 
nal joy, within the highest heaven— where all 
are high— lifted supernally, above earth’s 
mists. 

The utmost wisdom man may wish as his, 
will I unfold before you, in the scroll meeting 
the eye of mind ; and when from fleshly cover- 


36 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

ing it escapes, and stands with only its own 
nakedness, before the angel, unto whom it looks 
for what shall hide it from all eyes again, the 
robe of beauty, held in store for one bringing 
a spirit home, freed from all stain, may be 
laid over him by loving hands, fitting it into 
place, and finding all provision made, for that 
beneath. 

Aladin lay and thought most earnestly 
awhile, then said in quietude of heart and 
mind, How shall I bring myself unto the time 
alloted me, to pass the verge of life, and feel, 
without a doubt to trouble it, serenity of soul. 

Answered the voice, solemn and toneless, in 
his inner ear, And wilt thou do the thing I tell 
to thee, must be thy work ? 

Art thou afraid to struggle with thyself, in 
mighty warfare ’gainst an evil foe, making 
strange symbols on thy mind and heart, telling 
to whom thy Being’s self, belongs? 

Wilt thou turn unto Him whose name is 
“Good,” and cry for strength, to intercede for 
thee, when throngs about thy life in central 
core, that bringing thee to death itself, as all 
are there in fragments, leaving the whole loaf, 
cut by the knife of Self ? 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


37 


Hast thou the wish to cling unto the whole, 
making thy mind and life in unison, that thou 
shalt keep them long upon the earth, and at 
the last, depart in perfect peace? 

Hold fast my hand, for I am Wisdom; and 
I bring thee words thou well may’st wear upon 
the scabbard of the sword, that thou shalt find 
within the hallway, where thy light was shiv- 
ered into jewel rays last night, as fell it sharp- 
ly on the ones that shone as glitteringly, as 
wilt thou shine, among the stars themselves. 

Stars that to thee, bear a significance, as 
only something resting in the beam of sun or 
moon, that holds more light than they, are not 
the ones meant by her who speaks. 

I am within sarcophagus of stone, tight 
wound in spices, oils, and cerements, and I am 
with the dead, that speak no more; yet am I 
in the voice within thine ear, and in the words 
of wisdom strong and clear, thereon to paint 
my thought, and tell to thee, the course thou 
shalt pursue ; if thou among the stars I linger 
near, wouldst counted be, and unto Heaven 
Above, thy mind wouldst go, when death shall 
set it free. 


38 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


There are more Heavens than one, and each 
of these holds fullness of delight, man may not 
know. 

All are enhanced in faculties, that die and 
entrance make, into the least, of these ; but 
unto him who conquers Self, on earth, and liv- 
ing midst the same temptations fierce, assault- 
ing other men, brings from the fight, more 
strength to combat yet another time, and win 
more surely, ’gainst insidious foe, to him, will 
I make known the way to rise where angels of 
all greatness, sweep the air in mighty curves, 
that bring unto them, bliss most exquisite; 
with all the lesser gain of an enraptured mind. 

Such are the joys awaiting those that con- 
sort with the self denial and suffering, that 
come when life on earth, tells them of others’ 
needs; and how to bring themselves unto the 
poor repellant ones, that pass along the way, 
and looking not for love, feel Hunger stalks 
beside them, menacing their breath. 

These are the seething bubbles, lifted high 
above the boiling cauldron that the flame of 
earthly pleasure keeps in motion, till it casts 
them from its mass ; and breaking as they rise, 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


39 


to fall again unnoticed, whence they came, sink 
they beneath the whole, and bear the weight of 
woes unnumbered, that the race must know. 

Art thou the man willing to tell thyself, in 
midnight ease, within thy downy bed, thou wilt 
arise, at call of one repulsive creature, needing 
thee, that W ant, stride not with him unto gaunt 
Famine’s door, waiting to seize the vitals, and 
with bony hand, tear life from fleshless frame, 
that can no longer lift itself from off the pal- 
let loathsome, where it stretches limp ? 

Shall Spirit dwell still longer, on the theme 
more to be shunned than are the poor, drag- 
ging their weary bodies through the time day- 
light enables them to slave for bread? 

Laden too heavily are they, with that so 
great in all its hideousness, that any who may 
look on its obtrusive shape, clad in scant rags, 
because of poverty, may deem it loathsome; 
and pass by, on the far side. 

Want, will tell all that see its cold bare form, 
the sad old story of oppressive man, warring 
against a brother, in his need. 

Tellest me thou, whose inmost thought I 
see, and note the sound thereof, as passing 


40 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

through thy mind it brings unto an angel, that 
hears and sees all men, as e’en themselves do 
not, in the same time, but on close analysis, led 
by me as Wisdom, that thou art thinking how 
the cost of this, will rob thee of thy Lillah’s 
presence, through prized hours made thine? 

Dost question me within thine heart, implor- 
ing my consent that thou may’st send another 
in thy place, where Need has been before, and 
cover then her tracks with gold, employed most 
skillfully ? 

I tell to thee, no other hand than thine, 
trained unto gentle touch on reeking brow, can 
ease its pain; as thou shalt sense another’s 
wretchedness, that forced to beg, feels past all 
hope of peace. 

Think well upon the way of life I ask of thee 
to tread, and thankful be, that all will lead at 
last, where purling streams move with their 
music sweet, among the mossy grasses green 
and fine, and where the freed birds of earth’s 
Summertime, wing their enraptured flight 
from tree and flower, more beautiful than 
many, blossoming in even that, celestial air. 

Tell to thy soul, the years of earth are few, 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


41 


and though filled to the end, with pain and 
self denial, if leading where the crystal wave- 
lets sleep, almost becalmed, upon an ocean 
deep of all delights the human mind disfran- 
chised and adrift upon its breast, may know— 
as only such may — perfectly, its power to satis- 
fy the highest longing of a spirit rare, ex- 
periencing bliss, enrapturing, all has been 
gained. 

Make unto thyself pyramids; that will find 
men within their mighty shade, telling each 
other, he who built them there, made none to 
weep, nor flagellated slaves that knelt unto 
the lash, pleading that it cut deep, into the 
very heart; that through their agony, they 
might find rest. 

Let their tall summits, reach above a land 
cursed by oppression, and embittering pain, till 
piercing heaven, and rising through the air 
step after step, those tarry with them in the 
desert drear, who without love or care, lean 
restfully at last, upon the stone set by thyself, 
in labor thou told’st none to do for thee, but 
claim as thine, in Truth and Justice, fearlessly. 

He who holds the scales with hand Al- 


42 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

mighty, will most surely look where they point 
unto thee, standing between them, covered by 
their robe ; till parted by their hands, appears 
thy workman’s dress, and tools beside thee, 
thus convincing Him, that thou has worked in 
honesty, and with respect unto His laws ; com- 
pelling thine obedience, under pain of Heaven- 
ly loss, most irreparable. 

Think then, that goodness was thine aim, 
and noble thoughts lifted thee where angels 
still stand round thee, as they did on earth; 
and thou mayest say, Our Heavenly Father, I 
have made the talents Thou did’st give me, to 
increase, a hundred fold. 

Sweet will thy recompense become, as thou 
shalt roam the fields of asphodel, and fresh 
upon thine ear each hour, will fall the blessed 
words of welcome, ever bringing thee, enrap- 
turing sense, of all God giveth unto His be- 
loved. 

Aladin pondered long, the words that meant 
laying aside of self, and laboring as a gardener, 
in the vineyard ground where all grapes grew 
in such wild profusion, and untrained, so that 
at length, his heart was filled with grief; and 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 43 

he gave utterance to weariness, making the 
queen that heard him, turn aside and tell him, 
only that one way, remained to bliss, more than 
accorded was, unto the least, who strove by 
their own efforts, to make clean their minds, 
and purify their hearts, in earthly life. 

He felt discouragement of one assured that 
Heaven was his, for happy days, and who then 
suddenly was made to know it must be earned, 
by what was hard and hateful to the mind; 
so thinking all had been made known to him, 
, that would be with mankind in mass, when it 
would have ensured itself an entrance to 
a lower one, than that so hard to gain, he felt 
no longer, wish to strive for more. 

The Heaven all men might have, that en- 
tered there with hearts filled full of peace, 
and fear removed, was for him, well enough; 
he told himself at last, nor listened more. 

Then to his thoughts came Lillah; and his 
heart sprang to his eyes in gushing tears, tel- 
ling it unto her that waited yet, and heard his 
moaning cry, Will I forego my own Most Pre- 
cious Love, ’mongst all that Heaven might give 
me, so desired? 


44 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

Lillah ’s white soul, will rise to that bright 
home, where all that gives the spirit perfect 
joy, will shower itself upon her, as befits one, 
who has made herself as flowers are, that 
blossom in the lowlands, close to mirey clay 
and all unhealthfulness, yet keep their pristine 
coloring there, unstained. 

Could I exist, where Lillah mine were not, 
though all in Heaven, were its, that so cries 
out for her, and I were made an Emperor of 
Love immortal, but without her to kneel with, 
unto our God Most High? 

Then lay he for a little time withal, sorrow- 
ful; brooding over what must be his lot, till 
telling himself how vain it were to wait, the 
angel then said unto him, well hast thou chos- 
en, that hast with thee Love; whose beauteous 
raiment gleams along the night, and brings 
unto thee all enrapturing sense of what Our 
Heavenly Father meant for thee. 

Thou with thy Lillah, shalt be where the 
sweetest waters flow, adown the shadowy crags 
that part them into twain, and send their 
streams on towards a lower Heaven, where will 
the angels taste, and find them that making 
their beings thrill, with wondrous ecstacy. 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


45 


Near to the fountain’s self, wilt thou and 
thine be, in seraphic calm; floating upon the 
atmosphere of dreams telling thee how its bliss 
transcends the joy making thy spirit yearn, ere 
earth had left it free to enter there, and quaff 
close to the heart of Him whose hand out- 
stretched, allows the water of intensest life, to 
pour from it, upon the angel lips that drink, 
and drink again, forevermore ; where every 
draught brings to them rapture, even angel 
language, telleth not. 

In vision wonderful, Aladin looked upon the 
Crystal Sea, the Seven Golden Steps, leading 
up to the throne, where seated high, in state 
outrivaling that of any Pharaoh Egypt had 
produced, was Him that shone more brightly 
than the sun. 


CHAPTER V 

Sleep settled on his eyelids, and the hours ran 
on, until the need of nature was supplied ; then 
the awakening was with gladness, at passing 
of the time, keeping his longing eyes, from 
Lillah’s face. 

Leaving the couch, he bounded up the stair, 


46 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

fearful his footsteps might be heard without 
the wall, that hid him from the view of what 
he saw stretched dark along the sands ; when 
carefully the opening he unclosed, and found 
three heads turned towards it, in the shade of 
his own pyramid. 

Slowly the stone he closed, and noiselessly it 
settled into place, beneath the hand that 
trembled with his terror, lest ’gainst three, his 
strength prevail not, an’ they trouble him. 

Then with an ear placed close against the 
stone hot as the desert wind that blew around, 
heard he the three that lay without, with fierce- 
ness in their hearts, that foully sent most 
worthless lifeblood coursing through their 
veins, laugh fiendishly, at the unfoldment of a 
plan made theirs to hear, by Hashid El Raman. 

Coolly he counted up the cost to him, of 
spearheads, sashes, and the added steed each 
was to have, when Lillah should be in his power 
at Ormond; where the tribe’s vengeance, might 
not fall on him, as would it surely, should he 
bear her to his tent, among the homes where 
love for her and hers, would bring strong arms 
to fight in her defense. 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


47 


Tribe’s vengeance! then exclaimed one of 
the twain, for what would it be spent upon 
your head? 

Aye, what indeed? struck in the other, and 
Aladin heard the words that answered them, 
with all the apprehension Hashid felt, know- 
ing his lies were now believed no longer; and 
how the tribesmen met within the tent of 
Ibrahim, and wept with him, that Lillah was 
bereft, and would become a prey to El Raman, 
were he allowed to live, and have his will. 

Need there is none, for me, he said, to make 
a home among the tents again! I will ride on 
with her to Ormond; an’ live she till we reach 
its gates, or die ! all will be well, for 
I have gold there in all plenteousness, that 
when I will to gather it, shall be with me ; and 
the barbs, and wealth I leave behind, will be 
your booty, that have faithful been. 

The increasing heat, brought cursings deep 
and wrathful, from the miscreant who watched 
the desert way, and with triumphant menace in 
his tone, at last cried, They are mine ! and ere 
another morning scalds the flesh, here in the 
shadow of the pyramids, will I be with my 
plunder and secure. 


48 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

Aladin’s heart stood still with terror; and 
the thought of what awaited Lillah there, so 
weakened him, he leaned against the stone, 
then heard the words that gave him certain 
hope. 

They were to offer the exhausted ones their 
arras; stretched as one then said, under the 
very apex of the tomb, making the monument 
unto the queen who lay and knew all he then 
felt ; yet not with brain hid beneath cerements 
that held within them, all that once had been 
the fair, and fond, and radiant beauty, of 
Egyptian court. 

It was agreed, among the three that rested 
still upon their pillows, while the panting 
steeds lay prone along the sands, and motion- 
less, seemed scarce to breathe, as Lillah and 
her father drew more near, that the wide arras, 
tempering the light, should then be offered 
them. 

Will I, said Hashid, find another spot, far- 
ther from here, where they will see me not; 
and there await the telling them by you, that 
tribesmen will most humbly strive to help, in 
their distress. 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


49 


This pleased the two ; and Aladin heard them 
say, One of the camels weakened is, and will 
not long be with the load, and keep his feet. 

Ibrahim leads it, and The Patriarch even 
now, is not with his full consciousness, if I 
mistake not — then he left the one that staid be- 
hind, arranging all as would bring unto Lil- 
lah there, the comfort to be had, and hurrying 
forward, proffered he his aid. 

The weary traveler loosened girth and strap, 
with pitying touch and gentle word, that drove 
the listening ear inside the pyramid, to press 
against the stone, until the surging blood his 
arteries held, made slower progress^ 4e~~an 
aching heart; and once again he heard the 
music of his Lillah’s voice, in pain and fearful- 
ness, telling her father to accept the word of 
their own tribesmen, and make progress to 
the awnings, that awaited them invitingly. 

Under her veil, did Aladin in mind, be- 
hold his wife, and long to bring her freedom 
from its folds; but through the dreadful time 
till her release, must she endure the suffering 
it would bring, added to that already terrible. 

His thoughts filled with her hatred strong, 


50 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


the while he tarried until night should come, 
did Hashid tell himself he well might feel the 
scorching sunheat, and the desert sand, passing 
which, booty so rich, were gained. 

In a few moments, Sleep made hers the form 
of Ibrahim, and Lillah held from off her fev- 
ered face, that keeping from it, even the desert 
wind; that swirled around the pyramids with 
action fierce, as ’twere determined to remove 
all things withstanding it. 

Her slender form, saw Aladin, as opening 
but a little way the stone, he held within his 
eye what had for him, all that was to his 
famished heart, as entrance into Heaven. 

Faintly he raised his voice, in song of ten- 
derest love, unto the one, most dear, and Lil- 
lah, startled, half arose; then sank back on 
her pillow motionless, while listening to lines 
he sung, in place of those they often had in 
mingled tones of sweetness, sent unto the ears 
of Ibrahim, who thought how much more beau- 
tiful were they, than any other sound on earth 
to him. 

Feel not a fear, nor show surprise; were 
words the soft voice bore unto her ear, for I 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


51 


am in the pyramid behind thee, here, and to my 
arms, I bid thee try to come, when he, so 
tenderly beloved awakes, and thon shalt tell 
him that which must be done. 

Found I, a way to enter in, where all the 
treasured luxuries of kings, abound; and in 
the coolness, deep within the stone that roofs 
beneath it, all that hidden is from outer sight, 
will Lillah and her father rest with me, ere 
Time has run his course another hour; I fond- 
ly hope, with thee, whose sighs I hear, and 
know thine anguished heart hath found re- 
lief. 

The men, were then beyond their vision ; and 
as Ibrahim stirred in his dreaming, softly to 
his side stole she that heard, and laying on his 
brow a gentle hand, as was her wont, when 
wakening him at morn, said in his ear, My 
Father, rouse thee quickly! though thou mak’st 
no sound! 

Slowly did Ibrahim lift up his swollen eyes 
unto her face, and his dazed brain told how 
within her mind, was sense of what his, anx- 
iously forebode. 

Wilt thou arise, My Father? for within the 


52 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

pyramid, is Aladin; with all in store needful 
for us with him, to pass away our lives! 

Without show of haste or fear, he rose, 
and crossed the shade to look out on the way 
a caravan might come ; then passed he to the 
other side, and straining his eyes East, instead 
of Westerly, they swept close home, as he re- 
turned and looked upon his child with veil 
and scarf thrown o’er the open door, beside 
which, Aladin with heart aflame, waited to 
draw them in. 

Helped he at first, the father ; much against 
the will of Ibrahim who felt his Lillah was the 
one to live, and though his heart might lie 
where roses bloomed above her mother dead, 
never, in rest and peace, as he had hoped, if 
it might tell him ere it went, that she with 
Aladin was once more blest, content, his life 
would end. 

But with no words, and only anxious looks 
combined with force, did she impel him back 
of her; then stand with arms extended wide, 
that held far out, the drapery of her robe, while 
there adjusted she, the fastening of her veil. 

At sudden hiss from Aladin, she turned as 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


53 


sharply ; sinking on her knees to meet his arms, 
that waited only to be with her form nntil 
upon the floor she safely stood, and tremb- 
lingly, the doorway watched, with Ibrahim. 

Closed was the stone, with all celerity; and 
when the three had made their way adown 
the stair, and found the chamber great, await- 
ing them, mingled their arms and heads, and 
fell their tears of thankfulness and love, for 
moments, filled with joy unspeakable. 

After refreshing both, with water cool, and 
lifting in his arms the precious load he bore 
within them, up the stair again, Aladin listened 
vainly, for the words telling them missed were 
they, by El Raman. 

Sat they upon the glittering golden step, 
made for a queenly foot that never pressed 
thereon, and held sweet converse lovers only 
know, speaking unto the spirit’s inmost ear. 

Earth was forgot, and Heavenly Rapture 
came; laying soft hands in blessing on their 
heads, until once more did Aladin return unto 
the luxury that was below, where folded he 
within a fibrous mat studded with gems, the 
form of Ibrahim, that even in the desert, un- 


54 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

derneath the stone rising above the room so 
broad and wide, might feel a chill creep o’er 
him, as he slept. 

Lillah refused to leave him; and with all 
the longing in their hearts unsatisfied, drew 
he her form again within his arms, and finding 
cushioned seat made ready there for queen 
and king, that were to make it theirs, only in 
past belief, now held alone in memory, with 
all that was their own on earth, he sank into 
its recess, to await the passing time, when he 
again should stand beside the door. 

Hurried the moments sweet, to make them- 
selves part of the great eternity of years, that 
backward sweeps, within the corridor so vast, 
towards that enormous ocean, holding all. 

Fearing to lose the morsel that would fall 
within his mouth when hearing Hashid’s voice, 
again he gained the stone with Lillah; as in 
execration, wrathfully it rose above the other 
two, seeking to lessen that they so much feared. 

Will any tell me where the bird has flown, 
that seemed so surely to be in my hand? he 
howled, flinging his blade against the stone, 
with force that shattered, and its pieces fell 
close to his feet below. 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


55 


It was not I, who helped them get away, 
asserted first one, then the other man, with 
voice that trembled through dread fear of him, 
see where their camels lay ! in the same wise as 
when they knelt at first! and tell us how the 
ones that rode them, went ! 

Pausing to think, their master failed to 
find an answer to the questioning; and won- 
derment replaced his wrath, as looking further 
then, he found their store of comforts as when 
left, in hope of reaching Ormond. 

Truly a marvel has been wrought! he cried, 
and I am left disconsolate! but why were not 
you I hired, on guard to see the thing that 
happened ! when I myself, could not ? 

With rage augmented by reflection, and 
a growing sense of what it meant, to Lillah 
lose, he tore from out his belt the knife he 
wore, and lunging at the nearest man, both 
seized and bound him; threatening that at 
night, they would, the horses take, leaving him 
there to die; while they explained at home, 
his death had come from sunheat — as indeed it 
might. 

Upon the pillow where a head so beautiful 


56 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


had been, they laid his down; filled with the 
venom pouring from his lips in words so vile 
and terrible, that those inside the wall, moved 
further down the stair, to hear no more. 

Waiting not long, did Aladin tell Lillah, he 
would know the end ; so they returned unto the 
room below, where pressing gently to her lips 
his own, he bade her there remain and rest, 
until once more he visited the door. 

Maledictions rash and terrible ! were Hashid 
El Raman, heaping on Heaven; and Aladin, 
whom Ibrahim had brought up from his youth, 
to fear and love The Lord, felt loth to stay in- 
side the door, listening in silence, to the sick- 
ening sound. 

The miscreant, till exhausted, ceased it not ; 
then fell to pondering the mystery he might 
not solve. 

At last, called he the others, giving them or- 
ders to unbind him, and feel he loosed them 
from the least suspicion; for had not all been 
of one company? and would they have found 
a hiding place for those he claimed, when all 
their time between the pyramids, had been 
with him, and none had slept, save Lillah and 
her sire? 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


57 


Aladin’s indignation at familiarity he must 
hear and leave unpunished, made him grind 
his teeth; and with clenched hands, he waited 
to hear more. 

We will return, said Hashid, and tell none, 
what has come to pass, lest we be said to have 
made way with them. 

Likewise the camels will we leave to die, or 
wander back at will, if they see fit, for all 
the tribe know Ibrahim’s, and think me ready 
to make them mine own, if but I may. 

Let us search carefully among the pyra- 
mids, when twilight cools the desert, so that blis- 
tering heat be less, that we have felt for 
naught, and I will well repay you for the work. 

There are but four, of the great tombs here, 
and a survey of all their sides again, will not 
take long, as we will be with three at once, 
so if they pass around them to escape our sight, 
as may they have, this time, our meeting will 
be on the fourth and last, and still into my 
net will they be drawn. 

The thought exhilerated him, and as the 
day wore on, he seemed regaining his accus- 
tomed tone; while Aladin from time to time, 


58 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


would catch his voice, in further planning for 
the night return unto the tents, with all the 
story ready there to tell, that should exculpate 
them from seeming guilt. 

We will aver, he said, that when we left 
the pyramids at night, for our return, they 
passed along their way, hoping to find the one 
in Ormond, that I think, has spirited them off ; 
for in no other way, can I account for what has 
been; and Aladin believed angels were with 
him, and told him what to do, I know. 

Awe, held all three then, in its power, and 
the men cried, Let us hasten, and rid the pyra- 
mids of what we have ; the camels may remain, 
but all the food, we will take over to our- 
selves, and whatsoever may be with it, that 
will not be known at home. 

Hashid agreed, and turning from the stone, 
did those outwitted, lade their steeds with 
what was then as much their own to claim, 
as might it be the spoil of any traveler along 
the way; save only Lillah’s garments, and the 
raiment worn by Ibrahim. 

These, to the robbers were of little worth, 
and danger clung to them ; while all the prov- 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


59 


ender was stored among their own — and filled 
the leathern wrappings fuller than they wished, 
when once again, the dwellers of the tents, did 
eye them o’er. 

Thankfully then, did Aladin return, and Lil- 
lah met him on the stair, raising her face to his, 
in the dear way he knew so well at home; so 
lifting her within the arms cradling her fondly 
to his breast, he carried her inside the door be- 
low. 

Seated upon a divan, rich with gold and 
jewels rare, around its edge, he marked her 
palor ; and the circles dark, beneath the beaute- 
ous eyes, that overflowed with love. 

All told him of her weakness ; and he 
thought how both, might then have been among 
the blest, had he found not his way into secur- 
ity, or Hashid stretched his awnings in another 
place. 

I am so happy Aladin! she said, so filled 
with all that brings me sweet content ! will we 
be with the pyramids for aye, just you and me, 
My Husband, that our love may be to us e’en 
here, the blissful thing we crave? 

We will until the camels need a thing we 


60 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

cannot give them on the sands, he said, and 
then we may return at times, unto the treas- 
ures ours to gain ; but life that brings no hap- 
piness to others who may need, is not for you 
and me, sweet Lillah, wife, and we must make 
selection from our store, after the day to come 
has rested you, and load, when night has cooled 
the air a little, that we may depart. 

By morning, we shall reach the oasis, where 
all the caravans to Ormond bound, in search of 
market for their goods, make entrance; and 
will hope to meet one there, which we may 
join, and journey on. 

The little Lillah questioned not ; feeling that 
all her Aladin had said, was true, and wise, and 
good. 

Her head sank lower on his breast, and 
thought he of the weary day behind ; so laying 
her not down, he held the one so precious unto 
him that all his own long vigil was forgot, and 
rested, while she quietly slept on, in her ac- 
customed place. 

Deep was the slumber keeping her from him, 
until the night had wellnigh spent itself, while 
turned his thoughts to all that should be his 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 61 

of strength, to meet the time when Ibrahim 
and he would lade the camels, and his blistered 
feet, must walk again, among the shifting 
sands. 

Tenderly placed he then her form upon the 
soft divan, where all uncounted gems sur- 
rounded her, and thought amidst them all, none 
might compare in radiance, with his Love; 
so wearily he laid him down across the couch, 
and at her head, that he might hear the light- 
est word she spoke. 

Hours ran their course, and for another day, 
almost, the three slept on, within the pyramid, 
when Ibrahim awoke; and for a moment, told 
himself it must be that for him, earth life had 
ended, and the one beyond, begun. 

Not long lay he in doubtings, for the silver 
lamps lit the great room, till glistened it in 
beauty, like— he thought— the Heavenly land, 
of all luxuriance and delight ; but his awakened 
senses, told him its sumptuousness, spoke of 
earthly ease, and wealth approaching bound- 
lessness. 

No sound fell on his ear, but looking to- 
wards the rich divan, a father, felt its jewels 


62 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


were of little worth, to him that held so far 
above them, his two children, resting sweetly 
there, even as infant might, under the brood- 
ing care of mother love, telling its tenderness 
in noiseless whisper, and in lightest kiss. 

Long lay he watching; thinking of a time 
when he must leave them in a heartless world, 
unaided by his length of years, and full 
acquaintance with the hearts of men. 

He had trained both, in all the ways of 
truth, and love to them more needy than them- 
selves, to find at last, that all his thought, had 
made their hearts as pure and mellow, yea, 
and strong too, as the light that fell from out 
the silver canopy, upon the gorgeous richness 
of that room. 

What was to happen there, he knew not; 
questioning within his mind concerning it, 
while knowing all would be with Aladin, and 
safety then, he felt would be assured. 

Through all his life, had he much longed 
for wealth; whereby he might relieve the suf- 
fering at the tents, where kindred hearts made 
music sad, unto the ears of Poverty, 

Vain were his strong desires, and quietly 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


63 


his life had closed round Lillah and her Aladin, 
until within his inmost heart, were they the 
central fire; from whence outshone the flame 
of love to others, warmed then by its glow. 

That they must leave the pyramids, ere 
yet again the camels were athirst, he knew, or 
they might never carry them to be once more 
among their kind ; and his heart sank, to think 
of taking Lillah back unto the tents, where 
waited for them only empty days, without the 
one they loved. 

Until his name was freed from slanderous 
stain, as would it be in time, he told himself 
— remembering the few in tears with him, when 
talking of the grief they underwent, at cruel 
hands wreaking a vengeance on the innocent — 
they must remain in Ormond, once arrived. 

There, as their Aladin should enter in, time 
after time, with camel loads of wealth, how 
would his name increase, among her citizens! 
and the rich merchant, would remain exalted 
where he dwelt. 

Carefully measured he the values within 
sight, telling himself still further, how im- 
portant must one be, within the thoughts of 


64 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

men, when he returned from barter, bringing 
for their gold, the almost priceless furnishings, 
securely there awaiting them, across the desert 
sands. 

Might they but find a mart for them in 
Egypt! was his wish, but he had been where 
men were with the same luxurious wares, and 
found them slow of sale; not for the lack of 
wealth, but for the reason, it was well sup- 
plied. 

Unto the Government, had Hashid El Ra- 
man, complained of Aladin, and safety for him 
must be found at Ormond, for a time at least. 

Lying no longer, he partook of grain, and 
drank from out the water-cask shown to him 
ere he slept; Then gathering together what 
would lade the camels on their way, he waited 
patiently, until a sleep that lasted late, had 
been laid by, and from it rested, came his 
children forth. 


CHAPTER VI 

Eager to reach the oasis next morn, soon 
were the packs arranged, that Lillah and her 
father rode at ease, while Aladin strode at the 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 65 

side of her so dear, without a thought of wear- 
iness, until the morning light, red in the East, 
gave them to know they neared the gushing 
well. 

Great was their joy, to find as towards the 
fount their weary camels drew, a caravan ap- 
proaching; that would give to them the full 
protection of its numbers, as they forward 
pressed. 

Welcomed were they, when at the well-side, 
all the tribe was met, feeling them then too 
many for attack, if on their way once more, 
and certain to defend themselves with ease, 
should it be made while resting, in the shade. 

Smiles, and the asking for supplies, made all 
feel they would give what might be with their 
will; and as the earthen jars were filled with 
corn, from sacks borne by the caravan, Aladin 
with his father, counted the men with them, 
and found the number, to be twenty-nine. 

They added unto that the others gave, a 
generous portion, from their slender store, and 
some felt wonder; seeing three so poor, and 
without beasts to carry all, that they should 
still afford so much. 


66 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


But when was shown them on the finger 
white, of Ibrahim, the jeweled ring made theirs 
for extra camel, to be used at need, they looked 
at him in all his dignity, and dared not ques- 
tion, but made quick exchange. 

The caravan had with it thirty men; join- 
ing each other on the morn before, when reach- 
ing yet another well, that was a long night’s 
journey, nearer to their homes. 

Thus were the three so needing help, to make 
themselves and loads secure within the place 
of refuge, then provided well, with all their 
prayers had asked, since the first start of Ala- 
din, from Egypt. 

Faith strengthened, mercy shown by lim on 
whom they leaned, happy were they when 
night brought them the hour in which the 
loads were once more fastened, where the bur- 
dened camels bore them with their masters, on 
the way. 

Until the morn, at intervals, did Lillah 
wearily, behind her veil, wave a great fan, 
found in the pyramid, where all things women 
used, were most profuse. 

From out the hallway there, had Aladin, re- 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


67 


minded by the queen, brought off the swords, 
hung in their blaze of light; telling himself 
their rich encrusted hilts, might be replaced 
with plain ones, for his further use. 

Among the lading were they stored, and 
in their leathern casings, seemed too lean to 
ride upon, and not create suspicion as to 
the nature of a sack so small, carried across 
the desert’s fiery sands; so that among and 
with them, had he made rich tapestries to lie 
in such a wise, their packs seemed filled as all 
were, holding goods for marketing. 

Gorgeous the trappings of the caravan, as 
on its shining spears full fell the glare of sun ; 
telling® to all that saw it enter the wide open 
gates, important merchants, showed how great 
their riches, and how much were they to be 
admired, for their many servants, and the 
brilliance of apparel worn by all. 

Turbans, with diamond stars set in their 
folds, sent their bright glitter far along the 
way, while gauzy robes, were caught with 
crescent, wreath, and bar, of the same pre- 
cious gem. 

Drooping from staff held in the hand of 


68 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

bright clad hireling, riding with the rest, were 
silken banners; telling whence they came, in 
golden letters, that were spokesmen for those 
owning the cavalcade, making the crowd to 
know their consequence. 

Through the streets, yielding to them a 
narrow passage way, amid the throng that held 
itself in silence, did they pass; and Aladin’s 
eyes told him the place where Lilfah and her 
father might remain, while he was offering the 
goods for sale, that were with all the swords, 
among his load. 

Doing as did the rest, he found himself beside 
another, where the buyers came; and giving 
into care his camels three, unto the officers 
that waited there, soon were the two most 
precious in his sight, surrounded with all com- 
forts Ibrahim secured them in advance, with 
still another, of the many rings brought from 
the pyramid, left in the hand of him that kept 
the inn. 

Plentiful were the guards about their door 
that night, ere Aladin departed for his work; 
and the man keeping travelers able to pay all 
his demand, held Lillah and her father, as his 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


69 


care, so that anxiety made not its own, the 
heart of him whom Ibrahim had warned that he 
should go prepared, in mind and hand, for all 
that trade might bring to them, of ill. 

Close at his side, hung the long leathern 
purse, filled to a third with water, into which 
was poured the rare and costly drug, destruc- 
tive to the loathsome leprosy, that had be- 
fouled the city, till its ways were dreaded by 
the many passing a certain part, so that they 
held their breath, and hurried by. 

There, drop the gold paid unto thee for that 
thou hast to sell; said Ibrahim, after receiving 
it within thy scarf, which thou upon a pack, 
above a camel’s back wilt spread, and count 
all with the knife; telling to envious eyes the 
story plain, that all may read in thy strong 
arm, and in its blade, that will befriend thee 
well. 

When thou shalt come again unto us here, 
a bath will be made ready for thy use, that 
will restore thee unto certainty of danger 
clinging to thy flesh, no more ; while garments 
new, will I provide, against the hour of thy 
return. 


70 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

Aladin thought of how the old, would serve 
men needing gold, with which to buy; and 
called he on the keeper of the inn, to have one 
there in readiness, to take away what he might 
want no more, cleansing it well, ere to the city ’s 
poor, it should be given. 

Such were his wise precautions; and before 
the morn found him once more with those he 
loved, well had he learned the lesson, to be- 
ware how others came too near, or handled 
what he offered, telling of its texture, to the 
eye alone. 

Only exposure of his store, as piece by piece, 
he brought it from the pack, was needed, to set 
all the buyers with the market place, beside 
themselves, almost, to make it theirs; and his 
words, Touch not, well heeded they. 

Bidding against each other, were the men 
that had exchanged their camel loads for 
wealth, and through the city, soon the tid- 
ings ran, of what one garbed not as the mer- 
chants were, brought to their sight. 

Eager the buying, fast the selling too; and 
when the morning lighted all the earth, wear- 
ied, and rich past all his dreaming, Aladin told 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


71 


men waiting still, the night to come, would 
find him there as then. 

Bringing unto the officers again, all that 
the camels bore, sought he ablution, Ibrahim 
advised, then found his Lillah and her father, 
waiting for him with all eagerness; bringing 
unto themselves the tired one, happy, and free 
from all trace of his poverty, while knowing 
well, the change new raiment wrought. 

The Patriarch had sent for them that sold 
all this the most luxurious could command, and 
for the first time, Lillah beheld her Aladin, in 
princely garments clothed; making the gran- 
deur she had seen in him, apparent unto all 
observant of the tall majestic form. 

Kingliness clothed it, more completely even, 
than did the costly raiment it became; and as 
she looked upon her husband, entered her heart 
augmented sense, of how the fine head set 
upon a neck that told the way from mind so 
masterful, down to the heart so great, was 
short; and she had learned, ’twas often trod- 
den by the feelings warm, that made for 
Aladin the place his in the past, till Hashid El 
Raman, had sought for her. 


72 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

Account of all the night gave him to know, 
was then made theirs, while Lillah held his 
hand; and at its close, did Ibrahim say simp- 
ly, My son will find the one thing now for me, 
my days have lacked, to fill them full of peace. 

All his life long, since early youth, had strife 
been his, to meet old age, helpful to others; 
and ever, as the years increased for him, only 
might he lay by enough from an inheritance, to 
bring himself through all, without the fear 
steeping his heart in bitterness, that makes an 
old man wish himself asleep among his fathers, 
and brings to woman, stricken in years, the 
feeling all life holds, towards which her hopes 
may turn, is death. 

The morning stars paled in the eastern sky, 
and when the sunbeams silvered o’er the leaves, 
without the window of the inn, and made a 
roadway to the city gates, through which they 
all must pass, unto the waste, the dread with- 
in their hearts was then renewed, of the long 
journey through the desert sands, back to the 
treasures hidden in their depths. 

Long talked they of a plan to bring away 
all at one time, from mine of largess rich, made 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


73 


theirs by Heaven; and were they faithless to 
the trust imposed, little would be their grati- 
tude, and poor indeed their love, unto the One 
that gave back Aladin, unto himself and them, 
said Lillah brokenly, while The Patriarch 
raised his hands above their heads, and blessed 
them as they sat. 

Rest made for them its pillow through the 
day, and when another evening, shadows fell, 
did Aladin again repair unto the mart, and sell 
that then remaining in the packs ; save only, all 
the swords, kept for a time to come. 

Then turning to the place where camels stood 
waiting for masters new, his, numbered he 
among them; setting their price so low, that 
one forthwith made purchase, and he left the 
spot. 

Finding it early, and that time remained to 
look for what all longed to make their own, 
returned he to the inn, and once more left all 
garments worn among the horde around the 
market place, for cleansing ; making sure ’twas 
done with use of what had Ibrahim prepared, 
as antidote unfailing, for disease. 

This done, he hastened unto Lillah; leaving 


74 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


her with all the purse contained, for Ibrahim 
to count and lay aside, except enough their 
future home, to buy. 

Smiled she farewell, with his assurance 
given, that when return was made, it might be 
one that meant for her the one they coveted; 
where all their years should pass, mid scenes 
remunerating for past suffering, and bring them 
unto fullness of all joy. 

He had met that night, a man, holding his 
house for sale at value more than others had 
wherewith to pay; but bidding him await his 
coming, met they outside the inn, and went 
where he had reared a palace grand, with taste 
most exquisite, and all appliances for com- 
fort, though with money was he not, to 
further go. 

Aladin wandered long, among its spacious 
rooms and lofty corridors, comparing them with 
what were in the pyramids; and thinking of 
the changes time had wrought within men’s 
minds, enabling them to bring to view, imagin- 
ings. 

Telling himself it well were worth the cost, 
exchange made he of gold, for all he found; 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


75 


and when the daylight disposessed the night, 
laid he his hand on Lillah’s, with glad thought 
that hers would never find itself again at toil, 
displacing Nature’s lines of beauty fine, by 
those an artisan malignant drew, defacing all, 
with coarse and tasteless brush. 

My wife, he fondly uttered— and lingeringly 
his voice held to the words meaning so much 
to him— I bring to you, conveyance of our 
home; fresh from the hand of one just build- 
ing it, whose wealth extended not unto its fur- 
nishing. 

This was so needful, that without, he felt 
all useless ; and I found him eager to sell, and 
get his money back, to let it lay at usury awhile, 
that he might build, and finish up the work. 

The happy Lillah threw her arms about his 
neck, in that delight shared by The Patriarch; 
while Aladin within his mind, pictured its in- 
crease, when their eyes beheld the beauties 
ravishing his sight, as through the dwelling, 
its sad builder led the way, hiding his grief, 
lest he who noted it, at heart, believed him 
false. 

Feeling how few would make his own once 


76 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

more, the money poured out lavishly on every 
hand, he had then willing been, to ask still less ; 
and the rare taste that had transformed its 
rooms into such beauty, spoke in thrilling tones 
unto attentive ears, through eyes surveying 
them contentedly. 

Until within the pyramids he stood, and con- 
templated grandeur, such as only those of royal 
lineage might possess — unless like unto him 
had fallen it, he thought— his eyes had never 
rested on such sights. 

Scarce were they with their evening meal 
no more, when he had sought the man 
whose was the inn protecting them from ill, 
and given him a generous sum, in excess of all 
terms; for he had been with care of two, most 
dear, and none had dared unasked, approach 
the doorway his to guard so well, with prom- 
ise of accession large, to what should be just 
tribute unto him. 

Pleased by the benefits derived from one 
so served, his help extended he, that servants 
might be found, sufficint for the night; agree- 
ing to send others soon, well knowing how to 
render for their wage full value, and all trust- 
worthy. 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


77 


At early morning, stood without their door, 
women and men commingled, in the train of 
suppliants asking for places, under Aladin; 
and while selecting such as suited him, did then 
the wisdom deep, of Ibrahim, display itself. 

To Lillah, gave he two, that mother were, 
and son active and strong, with manfulness 
portrayed in every move; three like to him, 
he chose for Aladin, having in mind, the care 
of house and grounds, while four, were bid- 
den to make theirs the work, of tending on the 
camels; stabled at distance not too great, and 
one, was given charge of all, whose dignity 
and mind, made plain his right. 

All these, showed kindliness in lineament, 
and heads were some, of families standing near, 
from which selected he the housemaids ; so that 
soon, was every place well filled, at his com- 
mand to give. 

Then those that he had hired, were shown 
their duties; and each did vie with each, to 
render Aladin full worth of service, for most 
generous wage. 


78 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

CHAPTER VII 

With sunshine in the home, and warm hearts 
prompting all to bear their share, in making 
the great mansion as their master wished, its 
beauties grew on him, while unto Lillah and 
her sire, appealed they constantly. 

Thankful were they, that here, had one been 
led by Art, to furnish forth a table, at which 
all might feast unstinted, and expand the soul. 

The sweet days, unmolested by a fear of any 
that might bring to them alarm, held many 
thoughts how best to help the needy ones in 
Ormond, where heartlessness was with the rich, 
and leprosy among all classes counting money, 
or in other ways, bringing unto themselves 
the goods of men. 

Ibrahim had hastened to make his, all that 
he might secure of that most costly drug, with 
which the raiment worn by him when coming 
from the pyramids, had been well filled; and 
store of it remained. 

The Pharaohs had known its usefulness, and 
incense burned of it, filling their palaces and 
temples with perfume, and both tombs held 
provision of sweet odor, for long centuries ; but 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 79 

Aladin had long to wait, before another jour- 
ney should be made, and fell disease walked 
unabashed, with rich and poor alike. 

All entering their door, must first repair 
unto the bath below; where, in charge of a 
physician well knowing to its use, each found 
the treatment there accorded all, and safety 
was assured the domicile. 

Thus was the home made free from every 
fear; but both the father and his son, felt 
with Lillah that the loathsome streets, kept 
closed against all barter, yet sending forth un- 
cleanness, by that stealth unseen, tainting the 
purer air itself has not, be known no longer, 
as “The Leper’s Hole.” 

To rid the city of this pestilence, had been 
the fervent wish of those that held in trust, 
the riches found by Aladin where the dead 
queen, then told to him her mind; from suf- 
fering ones they had been wrung, and unto 
such, again should they be given. 

A fiat had gone forth, from those that stood 
high over all the city, in authority, that it no 
longer should endure the curse of such a 
scourge, now to be blotted out. 


80 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

One only way, remained unto the leper, 
with the brand of Cain upon him, sending him 
forth to die, amid the wilderness, where Lone- 
liness and Pain, would walk beside him, arm 
in arm, till Death met all the three ; and scowl- 
ing wrathfully into their faces, bid them drink 
his cup. 

Pity too deep for words, impelled their 
minds to find a way, whereby the city might 
be saved its own, no lives be more with desola- 
tion, and the pestilence stayed. 

Three days, had been allowed, before the 
sad and frightful cavalcade, should move along 
(at mid-day, when all others were within what 
shade might be their own) the streets of Or- 
mond; passing through her gates for the last 
time, and seeing never more, their dear ones 
wait, e’en with averted head, their entrance 
where all once had been, with love and blessings 
rich ; now theirs no more, that watching, would 
return inside the doors, and tell themselves, 
cheaply had all the awful work been done, to 
rid the city of its loathsomeness. 

Deep was the mourning on the doorposts 
stained, deeper the grief within the homes 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


81 


where Luxury, or grim Starvation, fed alike, on 
blood. 

Hastened then Aladin, unto the ones hold- 
ing authority of State, telling them to with- 
draw the edict, and unto him look for all re- 
payment, if the city’s woes remained; reveal- 
ing then the plan, whereby were all infected 
ones, that held each other dear, to have new 
houses, and their wants provided for, by him, 
until their death; when burning all they left, 
might then there be increasing healthfulness. 

The residue would still await their fate, in 
comfort ; fed by charity attending to all needs, 
so that none remained for any, secretly to ven- 
ture forth among the well, spreading disease. 

Soldiers should keep strict watch along the 
line enclosing all, and be made ready for the 
awful task, by that he would supply in quan- 
tity sufficient, used most carefully ; for it must 
last the lifetime through, of all that leprous 
were, with store beside. 

Generously he made his offer, and with the 
powerful, sat some, whose hearts were wrung, 
by the necessity of sending forth their own 
loved ones to die ; that had been bade farewell 


82 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


in agony additional, because of all the suffer- 
ing they must meet, upon the desert dread. 

These, leapt at the offer; and the rest felt 
it magnanimous, past the mind to reach , while 
all did yield in thankfulness of heart ; sending 
the heralds forth to spread the news, and tell 
whose hand had been that raised in their de- 
fence, as the mind guiding it, had felt the ex- 
tradition, would have brought first, to many, 
death by some means, made theirs forestalling 
that awaiting them without the wall. 

Fast were the houses built, that made the 
colony far to one side of that glad city on the 
oasis, and as the families so much with lep- 
rosy, that none were free from its vile clutch 
appalling, plead to be removed, and leave their 
filth behind them for the flames, at early morn 
were they within the van drawn by the horses 
white, significant of their disease that rode, so 
that men fled on every hand ; as it passed on. 

Not many weeks went by, ere all had been 
erased from off the earth, bearing contam- 
ination to the air floating above the spot, like 
bird of evil omen, to people of that city; now 
with appliances for burning every fume that 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


83 


should arise from the enclosure, where within 
walls of hollow tile, with strong draught from 
below, to narrowing top, were purified the 
gasses that escaped. 

A few were found, within the leper homes, 
not yet with the disease ; these were removed 
unto a certain place where Ibrahim made 
all his care, and unless obedient in the 
use of that most precious drug he gave, soon 
were they warned by the authorities, that 
further dalliance, meant Saharah ’s sands. 

Impending horror such as that, brought all 
to doing everything he asked; and ere many 
months had joined the cavalcade moving along 
the avenue of Time, fast to his funeral, at close 
of year, such change was wrought within the 
place repellant hitherto to all that passed, and 
with averted head and nostrils held, made haste 
to flee the spot, so like a dank morass, in stag- 
nancy, that the whole city, rang with praises of 
The Patriarch, uniting him in gratitude, unto 
the one that had brought then to Ormond, 
health and cleanliness. 

Provision had been made within the great 
enclosure of the leper homes, for laying them 


84 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

that died, upon a pyre fed by the oil provided 
for that use, by Aladin ; consuming all remind- 
ing those still left, of one glad to escape the 
trammels of the flesh, mid comforts, and the 
kindnesses of friends. 

So it became safe at last, that men should 
walk the long forsaken streets; and unless 
caravans entered the gates with goods, (and 
their attendant evils,) the purity of homes and 
walls, remained inviolate from leprosy. 

CHAPTER VIII 

When those that bought, had sold and 
bought again, Aladin ’s riches in the market 
place, and he had given time for most of them, 
to wish for more, another caravan did he pre- 
pare, the desert sands to tread, unto the wait- 
ing pyramid afar; that emptied of its stores, 
then might it lie in silence, and within the 
memory alone ; no more to bring them pain. 

With all that might make less, the terrors 
of the way, had Aladin near wrought a mir- 
acle, for the conveyancing of those he loved, 
with all protecting them, through the hot blast 
so like an oven’s breath, even at midnight; 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


85 


when the star-hung sky, was garlanded with 
lamps, that seemed to sway before the blinded 
vision, as their ropes of light, emblazoning all 
heaven, bedazzled it. 

He had, with plenteous fans, surrounded all 
the packs upon the camels’ backs, bearing his 
family and servants, seated at their ease on 
cushions that were filled with straw ; and 
bringing unto all that looked thereon, belief 
the merchant carried from the city, what would 
he exchange for value, brought again within 
its walls. 

Moved the fans, with each advancing foot of 
camel in the line, as would they still, where all 
was waste, and all was fearful to their minds, 
that followed then the lead of Ibrahim, as 
through the crowded street he led them on. 

Thirty strong men, were with the caravan, 
more than himself and Aladin ; while gleaming 
in the moonlight, every sword, sparkled with 
gems a king might hold, and feel himself more 
wonderful, therefor. 

Pride made the men that bore them, tell the 
throng that stood and feasted well their eyes, 
upon the flashing lights that played about the 


86 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

heads, and circled hands holding them poised in 
air, as if in readiness for battle imminent, how 
great the wealth of Aladin, and how much 
more was his than scimetar and spear, in that 
far country, almost without price. 

Naught was forgot, and naught might added 
be, to bring unto them comfort, and remove the 
dire dread of a journey that the gold of Aladin, 
persuaded them to make. 

Changed was the feeling they experienced, 
when in the desert with its burning sands, that 
underneath their camels’ hoofs, was pressed so 
patiently, they found the great fans, formed by 
thought, ere yet their master brought them into 
light, made all with far less suffering, on the 
way. 

A caravan approached; and while some dis- 
tance kept from others’ sight, their comforts, 
laid along the camels’ backs, on through the 
heat, rode they without them, unquestioned as 
all wished; when hidden were the sword hilts 
and the spears, that glittered through the 
night, needless for peaceful travelers, to keep 
in sight. 

None stopped for interchange of words, 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


87 


bringing to them delay upon their course, for 
every moment’s hindrance, in that air, in- 
creased the awful fear each man then felt, of 
leaving on the sands his whitening bones, to 
mark the way he went. 

When morning rose, fresh from her saffron 
bed within the East, it found them at the well, 
and shades of green; for among all that stood 
within the mart, had Aladin made his, the 
finest beasts, and strength was theirs, that so 
prevailed o’er space and time, that those borne 
by them to the oasis, entered the verdant spot, 
feeling the earliness of day was theirs. 

Unladen were the camels, and a circle made 
of all the packs, within which, Lillah and her 
father, slept away the hours, that kept them 
from the pathless waste again; while thickly 
round them, gathered the ones protecting fans 
and all, from prying eyes that vainly strove to 
look beneath the arras, shading that within. 

Aladin felt that he must watch and wait, 
with servants bearing in their hands thick 
stocks, carrying fear with them, to eyes that 
saw the wondrous weapons, bought at price 
that few afforded, in that most distressful 


88 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

clime, where wood was prized for shade, far 
more than gold; much as might be that prec- 
ious metal sought, by those who came to Or- 
mond, hoping to find it, and repay themselves 
for suffering. 

With sword and spear beside them, the long 
hours wore away, and brought the evening 
star, out from its depths of blue, to point the 
way trod by a climbing moon, that palely shone 
in weariness, above the shining sand looked 
down upon by her, for all the centuries since 
man first saw her rising to his view in skies 
afar, and asked himself with wonder, how 
came she. 

Then once again the beasts were with the 
loads, and taking from their coverings the 
swords, did all the servants mount and follow 
on, behind the ones that led the caravan ; leav- 
ing to tell each other, those who staid, and 
lived by pillaging the merchant bands not 
larger than they might encompass and destroy, 
that when on its return, with all the sacks 
filled full of wealth they prized far more than 
that contained within them then, Ormond 
— would not be with it, e ’er again. 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


89 


CHAPTER IX 

Not yet had been begun the sickening “Dead 
March” of a cruel sun, across the sands, when 
Aladin drew from the cavalcade, and lifting 
up his arm, said in a loud voice, Wait! 

Then standing, as all passed, he calmly said, 
leave here thy sword and spear, that with the 
stock, thou holdest in thine hand, will be my 
care. 

Each did as told ; for all felt he must be with 
their defence, and surely would empower them 
to fight, as had they been equipped upon the 
start. 

Quietly he bent himself unto the last hard 
task remaining his to do, before the life held 
in a human body, should escape. 

Surely will I be with thee, Aladin, a soft 
voice said, and Lillah sprang from off her earn- 
ers back, while smiling fondly, Aladin did feel 
her little hands had lightened all the load. 

In leathern skins he bound the weapons rich, 
laying them with the loads borne by the cam- 
els three, that carried Lillah, between Ibrahim 
and him, on towards the pyramids. 

There told he all awaiting night again, 


90 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

far away were fertile fields and tents; with 
men that held in hand, as he believed, the 
costly drug he needed sore at Ormond, for its 
safety from the scourge. 

Here at the pyramids will we await the time 
when thou wilt have made thine, all this will 
buy; he said, as handing each a purse, was 
added, see to it, which can gain the most, for 
me and home. tArV% 

Then did they all depart ;^and when secure 
from sight of any, that might mark their en- 
trance to the tomb, no time they lost, in mak- 
ing theirs again, the cool familiar spot. 

Soon were they lost to every troubled 
thought ; having no need to labor, or feel aught 
save rest they found, where had before ap- 
proached them, certain peace; until the hours 
ran on to half a score. 

At that time, in his inner ear, did Aladin 
again hear words, commanding him to rise, and 
seek the door; lest men return, and find the 
secret stone. 

He staid for nothing more; remembering an 
injunction given by the queen, that when a 
thing was told him then to do, all haste should 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


91 


be observed, in finding way unto obedience. 

Up the wide stair he sped, and saw the 
sand they had displaced, revealed a hiding 
place, he fain would keep known only to those 
dear to him; so all was made to look as 
when they had begun trying to reach the stone, 
that tallied with his memory. 

This done, again he made the couch his own, 
and slept ; not hearing voices deep and low, fall 
on the night outside the pyramid, until again 
the queen’s, broke on his ear. 

Get thee up to*the door, and listen close to 
that thine ear shall tell thee, has to do with 
what will be the future conduct thine, among 
the ones that serve thee for thy gold. 

Some, am I sure do not ; said Aladin, as with 
all haste he laid again his ear unto the stone, 
and found as in times past, it held not from 
him, voices from without, telling what he had 
thought might be with those from whom he 
took the jewelled scimetars and glittering 
spears, that laid within the tomb, not as doth 
lie there weak mortality, awaiting only that it 
meets therein, but to fulfill a mission glorious, 
in time to come. 


92 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

The words of a new hireling, met his ear, 
telling the feeling all might have, that made re- 
turn unto the pyramids, ere he expected them. 

* 4 Amazed am I, with all the rest, that such 
a thing could be, and yet they live! nothing 
could come of them, here in this sand, that 
sweeps along between the old high tombs, 
sealed all so tightly, none have found a way 
to get inside of one, by any means known unto 
man that lives, and I am one to hold your ears 
in deep attentiveness, to hear me tell how I, 
explain the wonder of it all.” 

Exert yourself Mohammed, answered he 
whom Aladin knew well to be Mustapha, wisest 
of them all that came to serve, when first he 
opened up the palace halls, and made him over- 
seer, to the rest, Let not thy voice give unto 
thee repose. 

The sand is cool, disport thyself; and leave 
no word unsaid, that giveth thee to hear thine 
own most wondrous tones tell unto thee, what 
we will sleep on, and feel all is well. 

Thou art with one thing, known for cen- 
turies; and when thou feelest thou hast forti- 
fied thyself, with telling it to us, that know its 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


93 


import great, believe we all will be with 
one accord, as ignorant as now, to what become 
if him who bade us serve him, and has shown 
every one he hired, how great a soul is he. 

The foolish one made not much more reply, 
than to adjure them all to be with him, in look- 
ing well around the pyramids, in hopes of find- 
ing that for which they came; and be with 
wealth unstinted, after that. 

With blood upon our heads! cried one that 
then did he within the wall, know to be with 
Mustapha, in his faithfulness, and had you 
strove to make his life your own, his body- 
guard, had been the men feeling that to him, 
owed they all happiness their poor unfortu- 
nates in leprosy, may have, while on the earth. 

Then spake again the elder man, with voice 
that shook like winter’s leaf in blast; For 
what came he with us across the waste, in ter- 
ror of his life, and her’s he loves? with the 
old father too! whom all at Ormond know, is 
worth a thousand lives, of such as you ! 

Was it to gain more wealth unto himself, 
when he had that unbounded, yet, and needed 
nothing he might not supply, in grandeur of 
munificence ? 


94 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


Was it not to provide against the day, when 
leprous men and women should need care, 
after his store had been exhausted there, and 
none might feed or clothe them, after that? 

Think how thine own, might be turned out, 
in this most fiery heat, to lay them down and 
die! and ask thyself how came’st thou, to be 
with food and shelter, care, and that protecting 
thee from every ill, when midst thy low sur- 
roundings, Ibrahim saw, and found for thee 
a place among the rest, at the great mansion, 
all are proud to claim as their abode. 

Be with thyself a little time! and see how 
all about thee, tells thy meanness ! and the deg- 
radation of a mind so sunk in slime, that 
leprosy has not in all its vileness, that which 
may compare with it, for loathsomeness. 

Aye, draw thy sword! the very one thy 
shameless heart did prompt thine hand to steal ; 
when for its blade, and seven more as keen, 
thou and thy fellows, made thine own, his 
gold! and let them meet mine, and a score as 
well! that will be broken in defence of him, 
our Lord, ere thine shall come anear that heart 
of his, more grand and great, than any other 
man ’s, that mind may know ! 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


95 


Wilt thou be with thy kind, and battle give, 
here in the wilderness, where jackals will tear 
from thy bones the worthless flesh? 

I’ll make thee seek for wealth! in which to 
clothe the thing hiding itself from eyes that 
see thee now, as thou ’It appear, when from 
the body thou shalt step, in all thy nakedness, 
and shivering stand, the wretch thou surely 
art, before the angels, come to meet thy soul! 

Sheathe not thy sword, for all with me, are 
here to tell thee by the ones we hold, our long- 
ing to let out thy blood on desert sands, to 
purify of black ingratitude, thy heart; when 
it no more shall hold, the vintage foul. 

Ha! turn’st thou to another tomb, and tel- 
lest thou me, no longer is the wish with thee 
to battle give, here in the desert, unto us that 
stand and order thee to eat thy words? for all 
we will return of thee to him we serve, and 
love so well, will be thy robe ! to tell how 
sword-thrusts, sent from earth to hell, a trai- 
tor ! such as thou ! 

I do recant! came in a shriek that rang 
throughout the pyramid, till Lillah heard, and 
Ibrahim leaped up from out his sleep grasp- 


96 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

ing a sword; that then he laid back with 
the rest, when Ala din assured him, all was 
well, and they might call the men, to help them 
lade the camels from their stores. 

Questioned him not ; The Patriarch that 
knew his wisdom, and again did Aladin betake 
himself unto the opening, where upon the 
ground stood all his servants, in combative 
mood, save only eight. 

Swinging wide the door, their master sud« 
denly appeared to them; as standing on the 
stairway, rang his clear, kind voice, within 
the ears of them well satisfied that he must 
know, some were but traitors to his family. 

One, hid his face, and lay along the sand, 
almost with wish that it might cover him in 
death; as quiet eyes that from their depths 
serene, made him to know how far from con- 
fidence, was now the man plotting the life of 
one so powerful. 

Will those revealing by their words and acts, 
staunch loyalty and love, to me and mine, be 
with me in the pyramid awhile? he asked, and 
smiled upon Mustapha and his friends. 

Hastened they towards him, with their un- 
sheathed swords. 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 97 

Their Master held a hand in warning high. 

Rang his voice sharply, as a clarion note, and 
at its tone, men started in alarm; for gentle- 
ness had been the rule of life with him, and 
all had felt he might lack courage, since no 
sound of blustering, had ever struck upon the 
ears of those that heard him speak, in manner 
that exceeded in authority, all any had expe- 
rienced before. 

Get thee around the miscreants who desired 
my life ! he sternly cried, and stood without the 
door, to see it done. 

Wheeling in line, the faithful servants did 
surround the rest, with their uplifted swords, 
and force of numbers, overpowered them. 

Disarm and bind them, with the thongs at 
hand! 

Then all was done as he had ordered it; 
and into the cool tomb were carried all the 
eight, that held sedition in their hearts, and 
terror, in their eyes. 

Fierce were the looks cast on them, by the 
men telling by every glance, how deeply ran 
the current of their hate. 

Tied were they all, unto the stone holding 


98 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


above it, the sarcophagus of her that heard no 
sound, from mouths enstopped by that which 
did so fill each one, the tongue moved not 
within. 

Leaving on guard a servant then, did Aladin 
command the rest to follow him adown the 
stair. 

Upon their vision, broke the mellow light 
radiating from lamps that stood about, and 
threw their gleam on all the beauties, of that 
splendid room. 

Aghast with wonder; stood the ones who 
saw, and with one voice, declared no human 
thought would reach unto conception of such 
sights, as were depicted on the walls around, 
studded with gems, outrivaling the ones seen 
— it might be — in dreams of grandeur, far out- 
stripping all the power of man, to bring unto 
himself. 

Aladin then directed all, with eye upon them 
in his kindly way, while Ibrahim and Lillah, 
felt the need of theirs ; where all was scattered 
not, as when at first they found it, but the 
jewels rare, threaded among the tapestries, 
were strung with that no knife might quickly 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 99 

cut, preserved within the pyramid, revealing 
art in more forms still, a later age has lost. 

Fast went the work, and when the room 
had been divested of the hangings most superb, 
there came a time to rest, and eat the food 
waiting within the bins and flagons, that 
were with the place ; with some from Ormond, 
which in sweetness, made the rest, seem little 
worth. 

When all had finished, and the cooling drink 
been quaffed, from bottles filled for every one, 
that then refreshed and strengthened, rose from 
where he sat, Aladin made a few, the guard 
to bear unto the malefactors, corn and drink. 

These, hesitated not, to tell of what had 
been their treat additional ; and when the oth- 
ers heard, rage, made them more revengeful 
than before. 

A scheme to wreck the caravan, was with 
the mind of each, and ere the ones that did 
replace the gags were with them, every one, 
said, at the oasis, they would not be as then, 
but fiercely fight ; when all the Bedouins there, 
should know the worth of what the camels 
bore. 


100 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


Contempt was thrown on them by old Mus- 
tapha then, and those that bore him company, 
laughed loud in scorn. 

Doubtless the tribe will listen to thy tongue, 
when we unbind it, and give unto thee an op- 
portunity to fill the air with words as empty 
of result, as were the ones thou spak’st outside 
this tomb, he said unto their leader, with a 
sneer. 

No time was given, to make the foul reply 
that rose to lips accustomed to bring forth the 
vileness lying in the heart beneath; and once 
again descending to the work, found they 
the rest within the hallway, where now the 
swords were hanging in remembrance, of the 
man who stood and watched, recalling all the 
servants’ eyes saw not. 

Roll after roll, was laid where Ibrahim with 
Lillah did remain; until the ceiling had been 
made to look as are found ceilings, in the 
pyramids today. 

Then opening the door into the room beyond, 
was Aladin made once again to hear the sounds 
of wonder, rolling from the tongues of them 
that stood and looked at values, not computed 
by the numerals they knew. 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 101 

Busied were all, until the grandeur lay be- 
side the rolls awaiting leathern skins, beneath 
the eyes of those that watched them well ; then 
were the packs filled with them, and anon, with 
camels fed, and all the lading done, was the 
long caravan, in waiting at the door. 

The mellow moonbeams fell along the sand, 
and stole among the pyramids at will; while 
all the captives were made those to feel that 
guarded still, would be their journeying. 

Placed between two, that loyal were, con- 
viction came at last, that only as had been the 
past for them, were they to find the future; 
and they sat their beasts in deep dejection, feel- 
ing all was lost. 

Great indignation, held against them, those 
that did the work for which all had been hired ; 
though lifting gems, and values unsurpassed, 
weight had been felt, that then had been the 
same, were it alone of rock, that strewed the 
ground. 

Fell on the heated air, sternly the word of 
Aladin ; If any free himself from out the thong 
binding him to his camel, he shall be thrust 
through by a spear, from him that rides be- 
hind. 


102 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

None tried it; and the cavalcade moved not, 
till Ibrahim with Lillah, came without the door, 
and tenderly was lifted to her place, the little 
form that Aladin so loved. 

For the last time, the three with hearts that 
felt the long march taking them to happi- 
ness, and all the faithful ones to comfort, 
meant with every step, the nearing unto death, 
of them that rode in bonds, were grateful for 
releasement from the pyramids; and when the 
word was given by Ibrahim, to move on, and 
be wary, soon did the fans send waves of cool- 
er air along the line, and make the past that 
tortured them, in part, forgot. 

With old Mustapha riding in the rear, while 
Aladin beside his Lillah sat, as had he done 
before, did Ibrahim their course steer by the 
stars, that then threw twinkling glances rogu- 
ishly upon them, meeting surly looks from 
those thinking alone, how short the way of life, 
and how improvident, had been they, while the 
past lay clear before them, that they might 
have filled with lines that shone. 

Lines telling to their Maker, one dear tale 
of loving thought for man ; and in justice, mak- 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


103 


ing all subserve to that High Heaven would 
ask, of those who tried to think on every side, 
and do the thing, bringing to others, weel. 

Moonlight lay glitteringly on the desert way, 
with all the feeling, and no more, that had been 
with it through the dreary years, ere yet kings 
built unto themselves the pyramids ; dismantled 
now, their riches scattered, and the howling 
winds alone, wheeling for cycles round them ; 
all unmarked, in these days, save by sightseer, 
straying with the throng, where money may be 
left as on it goes, to find the other wonders 
making up the seven. 

Nearer and nearer, to the oasis among the 
palm trees and the Bedouins, bore on the car- 
avan; and when the distant glow in eastern 
heavens, gave warning of another evil day, 
there neared it from the crossway, one as long. 

Waiting without the verge where shade ap- 
peared, until the strangers all, had entered 
there, found they the well, together; in such 
force, as to intimidate the band that hopes had 
held of seizing on their riches, when return 
was made, to Ormond. 


104 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


CHAPTER X 

When Hashid El Raman had found his tent, 
as bare of what he wished to add unto its 
stores, as when he rode away in search of Lil- 
lah, at the Pyramids, he plundered and killed 
travelers, as in days before; until exhausting 
all the tributary country, came the time about, 
that he could ride no more in search of prey, 
and find it as had he, within the leagues cov- 
ered by him in years agone. 

Hence, came about the welding of his horde, 
to that infesting all the desert round the oasis, 
that lay a short night’s ride from Ormond. 

Led by two chieftains, did the double band 
of miscreants quarrel among themselves, for 
booty once the spoil of one; that now resent- 
fully endured the threats of Hashid and his 
men, because forsooth, they felt at times, their 
added force would make them all, the owners 
of great wealth. 

Hashid had moved his tent, and men with 
wives and families, from Egypt’s land of plen- 
ty — for the honest hand that toiled — unto the 
oasis, where all was free then, to his preda- 
tory band. 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


105 


He had seen, as they approached, the la- 
den caravans that met outside; and told the 
robber chieftain, whom he felt would be known 
’mongst travelers, to welcome them in, and he 
would remain hid, until the night, saw them 
make ready to depart. 

Thinking themselves secure, with many 
spears, little precaution would they take; and 
the bands be upon them, ere equipment could 
be theirs, for making sure resistance to the 
horde. 

Thus were the caravans in ignorance of all 
that menaced them; and Aladin laid down in 
peace that day, leaving his trusted men to 
guard the packs and prisoners, while he slept. 

Wearied with what had gone before, and 
feeling old Mustapha was in charge, while all 
would be with the two caravans, he laid aside 
all fear, and slumbered on. 

Sudden and sharp, fell on his inner ear, the 
well remembered voice ! in stronger tone than 
in the pyramid, and there was need. 

Haste thee! Get to thy feet and arm thy 
men! Hashid El Raman is with the robbers, 
make outcry! and be with thy Lillah and her 


106 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


sire, within the circle where thou art, there to 
direct the fight! 

Leaping to his feet, did Aladin call loudly, 
Arm Thee! Lose not a moment’s time! The 
Bedouins are upon us, and my servants will 
make half the circle, then filled with all the 
rest! 

Every man among both trains, awoke to 
need! and springing from the ground, seized 
spear, and sword, and shield ! while at the side 
of each possessing it, hung the thick stock, 
light, strong, and full of terror for the foe. 

Seeing them with such weapon, the others, 
had throughout the morning hours, wished they 
might have the same ; and Aladin had told the 
owners of the caravans, where to procure them, 
when at Ormond, they arrived. 

Now, ordered he his men to alternate, each 
and each, with one not armed as well; while 
beasts were hurried into place, and some held 
packs thrown over them in haste, thickening 
the wall, and those to die next day at sunset, 
were made to sit the camels here and there, af- 
fording more protection to the one behind. 

These places were assigned to old Mustapha, 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


107 


and the men in age with him most near, in 
either caravan; while with bound hands and 
feet, and gags in mouths, helpless, the murder- 
ers, to aid the horde, or hinder the defence. 

Time was there not, for all the camels to be 
with their packs, but the criminals were with 
some that lacked; and feeling they would 
wanted be, to join the bands, and only by mis- 
take, their lives let out, had they been seated 
where they faced the foe. 

A loud expected shout, bore out the words 
of Aladin, as rushing from all sides at once, 
the enemy closed round the camel ring, and 
terrorized it not as it had thought. 

Deliver up thy stores! cried Hashid El Ra- 
man, or by the time it takes to count an hour, 
the blood of every man within the ring, so 
close with camels that I claim, will wet the 
ground he lays on, for a foot. 

I see their leader, standing at the side of 
one that slipped from out my hand when at the 
pyramids ! as I believe, and think now, he that 
holds her with a feeling she is safer there 
with him, than on the desert, in the open sand, 
will find my power as great, within the oasis ! 


108 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

Thy vile assertions will be shown unto the 
men with thee on either side, as lies ! retorted 
Aladin. 

Thou did’st force me to the desert heat, in 
hope of finding life at Ormond, that must have 
left me, had I not made ingress to the pyramid ; 
where soon thy hirelings came, to overtake and 
kill, if possible, the man thou hatest, since he 
bore the wife so precious in his sight, from out 
her father’s tent, most willingly, unto his own. 

I waited for her there in secrecy, to draw 
within its cool inviting shade, mid many lux- 
uries, the weary one so near her death; and 
thou, with hirelings tarrying for the night to 
bring earth coolness, in which effort might be 
made, kept from her sight, around a pyramid, 
and sent thy messengers, to proffer awnings, as 
if theirs, who were her tribesmen; when her 
father offered them his hand, in token of the 
gratitude they felt. 

Those arras, covered o’er the stone through 
which I passed, and found security, with 
boundless wealth, awaiting me; and when my 
wife, with Ibrahim her father, came to rest, 
and almost die, within the shadow of the tomb 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 109 

holding their heart’s wealth, with uncounted 
gold, made I my voice steal on the ear so near 
me, and arranged to draw them soon within. 

There, heard I thy foul curses, and made all 
my thought, preventing a belaying of thy 
mouth; by hand now ready to avenge my 
wrongs, upon thy shameless head. 

Yield we not an iota, unto thee ! and when in 
dust thou lyest low, and all the countryside is 
rid of thee, will I be with my family in Or- 
mond, her wealthiest citizen ! and blest with 
that respect, given unto one who brought her 
streets freedom from leprosy, and keeps her 
poor and sick ones, in all comfort till they die. 

A howl of wrath, sent Hashid, through his 
teeth, and hurled his javelin at Aladin; that 
fell short, and hid its head within the body 
bare, of one that sat a camel then, no more. 

Shields raised the circle, as with war cry 
loud, the Bedouins tore away the sashes worn, 
that might impede them in the fray, and cast- 
ing each his spear, that rattled then against 
a buckram shield, staying its force, sprang after 
it, with mighty bounds that cleared the camels’ 
backs, and hand to hand there struggled, man 
to man. 


110 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

Grappled the servants not! their swords 
they drew, and stroke on stroke, laid on the 
entering ones that made return with theirs, in 
all the fierceness that the lust for gold im- 
pelled; and when the stocks were raised, with- 
in the hands so strong, that fought for life, 
the blows resounded on heads then that fell, 
and all unconscious of their exit from a world 
to them, only a place for rapine, and the wealth 
made theirs by crime, the robbers’ minds, made 
entrance to eternity. 

Inside the lesser ring formed by the packs, 
with Lillah close beside him, as he stood and 
cried encouragement to them that strove, stood 
him directing all. 

Strength, met its mate! and lustily the men 
that struggled with contesting might, held to 
their ground with stubborn will unyielding, 
battling to the death. 

Lips drawn across set teeth, gleaming in 
Arab whiteness, and tigerish fierceness, from 
stiff beards, that made for them an ambush, 
back of which the whistling breath told of its 
strong escapement from the breast where Hate, 
expelling it, with force, drove the blue steel 
through one that stood before. 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 111 

Careful to call, in terms that would not 
tell to Lillah what he saw, the gentle heart of 
a strong man that never had till then, beheld 
affray, stood still with horror at brief inter- 
vals, to see the carnage; as it swept the ring 
clear at last, of all save El Raman, and the few 
followers left, of his confederate. 

Up to that time, these had not paused to see 
the fell disaster to their force ; that had unwit- 
tingly attacked an enemy, better prepared to 
meet it, than had been supposed. 

One look they gave around the bloody place, 
like shambles, with its row of mutilated trunks, 
telling the hour that Hashid El Raman had set 
for the extinction of the van, had counted been, 
by strokes that told a story horrible, to ears 
and eyes alike. 

Far on the outskirts, saw they women that 
had stood beyond the range of spears, and 
heard their wailings ; as no more appeared head 
after head, above the parapet of camel backs. 

Thought told their shuddering hearts, that 
nothing more remained for them, but leap the 
wall and flee into the desert, or make attempt 
to hide within the oasis, until the caravan should 
leave the well. 


112 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

Further than that, they felt not anything; 
and all the future held for them on earth, was 
soon made known. 

Plunged headlong all, across the camels ’ 
backs, and running at full speed towards their 
tents, with thought of barbs awaiting there, 
javelins followed, showered fast upon them, 
and they fell ; ere meeting trembling wives and 
families. 

The dart Mustapha sent, pierced the black 
heart of him that loathingly he had beheld, 
and felt his arm might be the one at last, to 
lay him low in death. 

Not one, of all the Bedouins that so long had 
terrorized the travelers, across Saharah ’s sands, 
remained to feel his solitude, and think how 
rash had been the venture, costing all the rest. 

Words faintly outlining, the awful truth re- 
maining back of them; for women with their 
little ones, were there left destitute and help- 
less, with the few remaining loaves and little 
com, between them and starvation. 

The ring of camels was removed at once; 
while Lillah, pressed her veil close to wild eyes, 
and Aladin spoke gentlest words to her in lov- 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 113 

ing tone, that told not of the tumult in his 
soul. 

Leading the beast she rode, did Ibrahim, 
whose hand had held the weapons of defense, 
among the servants so determined that no in- 
jury be his, conduct them both unto the 
others; where the soft green of the oasis, held 
shrieking women, that then grew silent, fear- 
ing death might overtake them, ere it must. 

There, while the bloody battle-ground re- 
mained as when ’twas left, did Ibrahim lift 
up his hand, and say in earnest tone, Be with 
me now in prayer. 

All heads were bent, and silently the circle 
looked upon the ground, while he upraised his 
voice and face to Heaven, and in thanksgiving, 
made their feelings known, that looked for hap- 
piness. 

Our Heavenly Father, wilt Thou take, from 
us, the thanks our hearts hold unto Thee, with 
offerings deep, of praise. 

Thou knowest the Bedouin bands have slain 
and robbed all travelers, that passed along the 
way in peaceable intent, for many years ; save 
only such as might by numbers make afraid, 
the force of Rapine. 


114 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

Thou alone, art with a knowledge, of the 
desolate hearts and devastated homes, within 
our land, made so, by this same horde, that 
yon lies dead. 

Free to the caravans, shall now the desert 
be, and with the fall of husbands, will their 
families be cared for, as shall bring peace unto 
their hearts. 

Be Thou our rearward. 

Comfort all that weep, and bring us safely 
to the place, where homes will be with them, 
deserving not their death. 

Great God of all, wilt thou be with the mur- 

t 

derous hearts, that lay within the bodies spared 
by those, wishing for further help in their 
maraudings. 

Bear thou in upon their minds, the awful 
doom awaiting them, at hand of executioner. 

Bring them to think of what hell means, for 
everlasting suffering ; and make them long for 
that repentance, that will mean release from 
pangs more terrible, than any earth may know. 

May they hear my words and profit by 
them! in a way leading them to feel their sin, 
against the leprous ones in Ormond, unto whom 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 115 

we carry the relief that but for us, and with 
our lives and wealth, might not be theirs un- 
til upon the desert must they lie; a menace 
unto all that might pass by, and sowing in the 
winds, their pestilence, to scatter it abroad 
upon the earth. 

When they shall be with mercy in their 
hearts, for those so wronged, and feel the need 
of pardon, for their crime attempted against 
us, who will be with their sentence, as those 
they strove to bring unto sedition, against them 
shall inveigh, and then shall cry upon thee 
from their hearts, and in The Mind^ of, The 
Holy Spirit, ask Thee to forgive, and show 
them mercy, they will know that peace, ena- 
bling them to face the future, and feel their 
punishment will be meted out, in fear of furth- 
er sinning from them, ’gainst mankind. 

I bow within the Mind of one, my Guar- 
dian Angel that has been, ere first I drew my 
breath mid earthly woes; and who exists with 
thee, in Heaven above, yet still controls my 
thoughts; surrounding me so fully, with that 
Mind, loaned me to pray within, and to the 
Presence there, unspeakable and formless, in 


116 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

His power and grace, that I ask all petitioned 
for, here or at any time, as now, in The Mind ; 
of, The Holy Spirit. 

Lifting his head, the reverent awe of listen- 
ing men, showed in set faces; and the surly 
looks of the condemned, were here and there 
made less, to the observant eye, so Aladin or- 
dained their mouths be freed from bandages, 
keeping from speech, them that now had use 
for none. 

Lie still and rest within the shade till night ; 
commanded he still further, when all trace of 
the fight will be removed, and on the march, 
will we again be, with the women and their 
little ones, that will make readv all they can 
remove on back of horse, and join our caravan, 
feeling that now, in safety may it ride. 

They heard his words, and tears told of their 
grief, and mingled gladness, all might eat and 
live ; with care that would extend to time 
ahead, when children should be able to main- 
tain the mothers, thanking then the ones that 
saved them from starvation and its terrors, in 
their homes. 

The Full Moon rose, surrounded by the stars 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


117 


that followed after, though with slower step, as 
looking backwards o’er the shining sands, she 
felt they held her in their loving thoughts; 
and Ibrahim was with the men that found 
how women had sought out the one most dear 
to each, and made all, ready for the burial. 

None came anear, to trouble them with wails, 
while their hard task, with most unwilling 
hands and thankful hearts, they did pursue; 
thinking the malefactors might assist in lay- 
ing side by side the dead, within the grave 
deep as the oasis would them allow, before the 
tide of swallowing sand flowed in, to ruin 
all their work. 

Scant time was there to rest, when all was 
done, if Ormond should be reached another 
morn, and with all haste, refreshment then was 
theirs, and camels, that had fed while there, 
were once more laden with the prisoners 
and packs from off the ground, where all had 
lain with Aladin to watch them, standing be- 
side his wife, who felt her cup of blessings then 
ran o’er. 

Seated between their guards, and on the 
way towards the oasis, the prisoners attempted 


118 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

not to tell resentment, or to cast reproach; 
feeling the few short hours before them, must 
be given to thought. 

Likewise their captors, having heard the 
prayer of Ibrahim, that told of punishment 
awaiting them where the worm dieth not, that 
gnaweth at the heart, and maketh ravage of all 
happiness forevermore — as men have thought 
“Eternity” to mean — sat speechless; while did 
Ibrahim again ride on in front, with Aladin be- 
side his Lillah, and Mustapha in the rear. 

Proud was he to be entrusted with that place, 
important to the ones he served so well; and 
as the patient camels plodded on, felt he, 
with some beside, that every step brought 
nearer to them, Home. 

Home where the heart is; and the mind of 
man hath ever turned towards its calm, sweet 
joys, with feelings tend ’rest, in the ones that 
having tried the world, and found it wanting 
in sincertiy, and in that flawless love, sur- 
roundng those that enter at the door, closing 
out strife, find there their rest. 

Those that were bound, partook not, with 
the rest that followed Ibrahim, of sweetest 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 119 

bread, made by the hand of Love, and stored 
within the mind; but felt that every passing 
wind, bore from them fragments of their lives. 

Each man among them, thought on all his 
past; and how his whole life, had been given 
to Self, demanding all within his mind to do, 
as willing sacrifice, at that vile shrine. 

Hopes crushed, that had twined round him 
as a child, making a mother look towards the 
years when he should be her stay and com- 
forter, turn sadly towards the past, and hold 
within the walls of memory, what would bring 
her heart to feel there would be hers, no other 
place where Love might fold its wings in hap- 
piness, thinking of what the child had been, 
ere Time had led his steps downward to hell. 

That his own Will, had welcomed in the 
thoughts that made him wish for low com- 
panionship, denied he not; and with the terror 
of a death, so near it looked him fiercely in 
the face, he shuddered at the sight that lay 
beyond. 

Had he but turned to higher, better things, 
when life and leisure for them, were his own, 
how different all might now have been with 


120 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


one arrived at the climacteric, that would be 
with him, till he felt the fiery eyes of demons, 
piercing his soul, and heard their howls of 
triumph, as in hell he stood, and trembled with 
the anguish of despair. 

Then turned his mind, unto the prayer of 
Ibrahim for him; and as the leagues were 
passed, deep was the earnestness within his 
heart, and humble was his attitude of soul; as 
low upon the ground, his guardian angel spread 
before his sight, prostrate, he cried aloud in 
tears to God, to pardon all his sin. and save his 
soul from devils, at the last. 

The peace of that forgiveness needed so, 
was with the heart that turned to face his 
doom, with all the tumult of his spirit hushed ; 
as dimmed the things of earth, before his sight, 
and humbly hoped he for a place where all 
forgiven minds, may earn the privilege ex- 
tended them in mercy, that conforms unto the 
law of Him rejecting not, the offering of a con- 
trite heart. 

Morning again broke o’er Saharah’s wastes, 
and Ormond was before the caravan, with all 
the noises of her streets again with Aladin and 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 121 

his family; but the prisoners, saw only the au- 
thorities, to whom they were consigned, ere 
to the palace walls, passed on the rest. 

Joyous their welcome, as the citizens poured 
from their homes to meet, and tell to them 
by tears and laughter, and the lengthened 
shout from many throats, how full had grati- 
tude, made all their hearts ; and when the door 
of home, stood open wide before them, and 
their eyes beheld the ones they left in charge, 
crowding its threshold eagerly, to aid them, as 
they entered once again among its treasured 
things, how ardently their spirits turned in 
thanks, unto Our Heavenly Father; that at 
length, it might be theirs no more, to feel a 
need, recalling them unto the pyramid. 

Greetings were over, and the servants made 
all haste to carry to the vaults beneath, the 
packs from off the camels, then to care for 
them, as Aladin required. 

Sat all at the repast prepared for them, and 
gave account in part, of all that had befell, to 
those they left behind; and then did Ibrahim 
direct Mustapha and the men that he should 
name as helpers, to lead the beasts to market, 
all save three. 


122 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

Lillah, with Aladin beside her, entrance 
made to all apartments of the house so dear, 
and found in each, a witness to the faithful- 
ness of those that had there told, their steward- 
ship. 

Resting amid the luxury, and air cooled by 
great fans, waved in the hands of those that 
were well paid, and gave with service, love 
as well, did they that found relief from every 
care, sleep time away, till evening came, and 
found them ready for the interchange of 
deepest, tenderest thought. 

No more, their hearts turned longingly unto 
the tent beneath the palm trees, in Egyptian 
land, where jasmine crept, and sweetness told 
among the fine green grasses of low graves, 
round which their memories clung most lov- 
ingly. 

Dear unto them the scenes of other days, 
when with the passing years, the true heart’s 
mate was found, where little else made bright- 
ness for their lives, and all was with them of 
deformity of mind, among the Bedouin band, 
whose wives and little ones were with the cara- 
vanserie, where Aladin had been with Lillah 
and her father, for a time. 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 123 

Tethered their Arab barbs of mettle fine, 
and when within the market place they stood, 
offered to buyers, little time was given for 
barter, until all were sold ; and the price helped 
to make the owner comfortable. 

Never from all their care, released his mind 
him who had promised them his aid, when 
lay their sole support upon the sod, soaked 
with life-blood that then, could no more throb 
through evil hearts, impelling unto deeds that 
suffering brought, intense as that felt by the 
- ones left by them, at the well. 

Thus was the wealth found in the pyramids, 
made that to bring unto the poor, relief from 
curse which followed after all the cost to them, 
in the long past ; when Pharaohs sat with heel 
upon the necks of slaves, that built the mon- 
uments unto their sin, that ruled. 

CHAPTER XI 

As Ibrahim advanced into the time lying 
along the verge of earthly life, no loss of all 
his insight into hearts of men, marked a 
decadence of the faculties, that had maintained 
for him, respect of all, wherever might his 


124 THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 

words of truth be heard ; and when at last the 
evening did appear, towards which his eyes had 
turned since Lillah made of Aladin her choice, 
he felt that>|ugust Life had rounded up a brim- 
ming cup of happiness, with years of useful- 
ness. 

Calmly he looked upon the rising moon, gild- 
ing the way by which his spirt should move 
on, in peacefulness entire, until it met an angel 
gliding there, to welcome him. 

Her would he tell, as on his arm she leaned, 
leading his feet unto the shining strand where, 
with the little one they lost on earth, long had 
she been in blissful life so sweet, that he had 
held unto her wishes, fast; and brought their 
Lillah, safe to Heaven (in mind) and her full 
life, was crowned with all their hearts might 
wish it to contain. 

And when the morning broke upon his sight, 
he laid his hand in blessing, on the head, of 
their sweet child, that wept so bitterly, with 
Aladin beside her kneeling form, and said in 
feeble voice, but cheerily, My Children, I am 
going home ; to where the lilies ever bloom, the 
birds alight upon the palm trees near the tent, 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


125 


and warble sweeter songs than were with ours 
beside the living well, that made the mosses 
where my Lillah’s feet were buried in their 
carpeting of green, more beautiful than any 
earth around; and all the ground of Heaven, 
where I look, is like to that. 

Full are my years, with all that love can 
give ; and with thy mother, Lillah of my heart, 
will I be with thee, wheresoe ’er shall meet thine 
eyes, with aught thy future holds ; y lX 

Make to thyself all happiness below, sure 
that with me, it cannot be enhanced; but feel 
with all thou doest, all thou hast, I will be with 
thee where thou wishest — and not more. 

Sacred, the heart’s most deeply tender hours, 
and I am with the knowledge, mine were kept, 
even from my children ; will they then feel all 
my lips have spoken, has become their thought ? 

Our Heavenly Father, bless Thou this, my 
child ; and may Thy blessing rest on him that 
will for her, the coming years on earth, en- 
rich with gifts too beautiful, for tongue of man 
to utter forth in speech, the amplitude of all 
they bring to her. 

Keep Thou their ways; and be within their 


126 


THE MYSTERY OF A PYRAMID 


hearts leading them on, until the brighter day 
shall break upon them, with as perfect peace, 
as now it breaks on me, and with my wife. 

Closed were his eyelids, and the happy smile 
then resting on the tender lips, that told the last 
farewell to earthly love, made all his face to 
beam in radiance, where he lay; and Aladin 
bent over it with Lillah, as she pressed upon it 
kisses, bathing it with tears, and held her 
strongly to his aching heart, while whispering 
softly, Heaven’s Will, be done. 


















































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































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